Suicidality in Pediatric Bipolar Disorder: Predictor or Outcome of Family Processes and Mixed Mood Presentation?

The relationship between suicidal behaviour, mood symptom presentation, family functioning, & quality of life was examined in youth with pediatric bipolar disorder. Participants included 138 youth, aged 5-18 years. 20 patients had lifetime suicide attempts, 63 had past or current suicide ideation, & 55 were free of suicide ideation & attempts. Attempters were older than nonattempters. Suicide ideation & attempts were linked to higher depressive symptoms, & rates were even higher in youths meeting criteria for the mixed specifier proposed for DSM-5. Both suicide ideation & attempts were associated with lower youth quality of life & poorer family functioning. (67 refs.) JA