Uncovering the Link between Neurocognitive Functioning and Suicide Attempt

Chloe Lau

Impact

  • Academic knowledge has been disseminated to varied stakeholders and policy-makers through local (e.g. Sickkids’ Research Day) and international (e.g. SIRS Conference) academic meetings.

  • Knowledge gained from this study is utilized to inform youth suicide prevention and management in youth mental health programs at CAMH and other organizations, showcasing the practical application of the research project and knowledge gained.

  • The findings from the study are utilized to predict suicide attempt in a high-risk youth population.

  • Ontario

  • Fellowship

  • University of Toronto

  • Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)

  • Mitacs, Knowledge Institute on Child and Youth Mental Health and Addictions

  • 2021-2022

  • Children and Youth Mental Health

  • Children (aged 1-12), Youth (aged 12-18),

About the Project

Through this research project, the researcher aimed to understand and predict the likelihood of suicide attempts among young people between the ages of 11 and 24. Suicide is a significant concern in this age group and the second leading cause of death for this age group. Thus, the researcher investigated young people’s ability to pay attention, memory and social interactions. The objective of this project was to develop a suicide attempt screening algorithm/program for the early identification and intervention for youths who would be high-risk for suicide attempt. Predictors for suicidal thoughts included mental health disorder diagnoses, suicide risk factors such as hopelessness and depression.

Methodology

Data for this research was derived from the CAMH Toronto Adolescent and Youth (TAY) Cohort Study and the researcher examined data from 265 youth (aged 11 to 24) with high risk of psychosis and/or with difficulties in regulating their emotions, attention and behavior (dysregulation). These profiles were compared based on thoughts of suicide, self-injury and suicide attempt.

Findings

  • 22% of youths with high-risk for psychosis would attempt suicide.

  • Youth at early stages of psychosis have a 8-time high risk of suicide than compared to non-suicidal youth.

  • Youth with reduced dysregulation have higher likelihood for attempting suicide and youth with both dysregulation and high psychosis risk have the highest suicide attempt.

Project Outreach

This project shared academic knowledge with stakeholders and policymakers at local and international events, impacting youth suicide prevention efforts. While the research was focused on Ontario, there's an intention to replicate the findings in other cultural contexts.

Resources Created

  • 1 poster presentation presented at the 2023 Congress of the Schizophrenia International Research Society.

  • 1 poster presentation presented at the 2023 Division of Child and Youth Mental Health Research Day at Sickkids’ Hospital.