Title : Pediatric eating disorders and suicide: A public health perspective for prevention and early intervention
Abstract:
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals 10-24 years of age. As such, suicide prevention is a public health priority. Individuals with a history of or current eating disorder are at significantly higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB)s. Despite low prevalence rates for eating disorder diagnosis, the risk of suicide remains high in this specific population. Research shows increased adjusted odds ratios of as high as 12.09 for the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa-binge-purge subtype, and elevated rates for all types: anorexia nervosa-restricting type (3.16), bulimia nervosa (6.33), binge eating disorder (4.83). Using the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, this presentation will examine how eating disorders contribute to the risk factors of thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and acquired capability for suicide. Additionally, using a Life Course Perspective of Health Model, risk will be examined at multiple levels of influence (biological, psychological, individual, family, community, and policy) across the life course (pre-natal through adolescence). This public health model shows how multiple factors may compound over time to impact mental health outcomes and will address the critical health equity aspects of both eating disorder and suicide prevention. Finally, despite the goal of primary prevention, this presentation will address early intervention through evidence-based treatment recommendations for both eating disorders and suicidality. A two-factor approach will be taken, first through the use of screener tools like the Ask Suicide Screening-Questions and Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale, and secondly through best practice therapeutic interventions like Safe Alternative for Teens and Youth-Acute (SAFETY-A) and Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT). Instead of using my full allotment for words, I am attaching my Life Course Perspective diagram, as I believe this is the most important part of the presentation.
