The Neuroendocrine System and Suicide (IN: Report of the Secretary’s Task Force on Youth Suicide. Volume 2: Risk Factors for Youth Suicide)

The thyroid stimulating hormone response to thyrotropin-releasing hormone & the basal secretion of cortisol correlated with violent suicide, or suicide ideation, are reviewed. A model of suicide etiology is considered. Other hormones that may contribute to suicide potential & hormone challenge tests that may predict suicide are briefly considered. The authors conclude that adolescent suicide may occur in the context of a rapidly changing & aroused neuroendocrine system. (CM)