Work

Association between changes in family relationship status and suicidal ideation among individuals with physical disabilities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: PURPOSE: Individuals with physical disabilities are at a higher risk of suicide due to daily activity limitations and dependency on others. Family relationships are important to their mental health and well-being. This study investigated the impact of changes in the family relationship status of physically disabled individuals on suicidal ideation. METHODS: We used data from the Disability and Life Dynamics Panel for 2018-2022. A total of 3,704 individuals were used in the analysis. Family relationships were classified into four groups: 1) good → good, 2) poor → good, 3) good → poor, and 4) poor → poor. We assessed suicidal ideation and attempts based on self-reported questionnaires. A generalized estimating equation model was used to analyze the impact of changes in family relationships on suicidal ideation in people with physical disabilities. RESULTS: Individuals with physical disabilities whose family relationships declined were 1.63 times more likely to have suicidal ideation (95% CI 1.22-2.19) compared to those with consistently good family relationship. Among the subfactors of family relationships, family problem-solving ability showed the strongest association with suicidal ideation when it deteriorated (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.03-1.74). Individuals with consistently poor family relationships were 1.78 times more likely to have suicidal ideation alone (95% CI 1.33-2.38) and 2.29 times more likely to have both suicidal ideation and attempts (95% CI 0.89-5.93). CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest the importance of addressing family relationships in suicide prevention strategies and mental health interventions for individuals with physical disabilities.

Source: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology

DOI: 10.1007/s00127-025-02881-9

Authors: Cho Rong Kim, Soo Young Kim, Yun Seo Jang, Eun-Cheol Park

Institutions: Yonsei University, Yonsei University Health System

Language: English

Topic: Suicide and Self-Harm Studies

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,390