A study conducted at Kennedy Krieger Institute has revealed insights into the reality of suicide risk among children with neurological, developmental, and behavioral disorders. The research shows the importance of universal suicide risk screening in pediatric outpatient settings, with findings suggesting that children as young as eight years old may be at risk. The work is published in the journal Academic Pediatrics.
With the rising concern for suicide in children, screening for risk is being recommended in pediatric health care settings. At Kennedy Krieger Institute, its medical and behavioral health clinics routinely screen children aged eight and older for suicidal thoughts and behaviors using the Ask Suicide-Screening Questions (ASQ) tool as part of their clinical care. The ASQ is a brief, evidence-based screening tool with four straightforward yes-or-no questions that help clinicians quickly identify individuals at risk for suicide.
Researchers reviewed over 10,000 screenings that took place for children between the ages of 8 and 17, with over 1,000 positive results found across Kennedy Krieger's specialty clinics.
"Suicide is the second leading cause of death in children and young adults, and universal screening allows us to identify children whose suicidal thoughts and behaviors may otherwise go undetected," said Dr. Allison Gornik, a clinical psychologist and member of the research team. "Children with neurodevelopmental differences should not be overlooked or excluded from these screenings. Our data show they have comparable, and in some cases elevated, risks when compared to their neurotypical peers."
Key findings include:
The universal screening program at Kennedy Krieger was created due to national safety recommendations. Dr. Paul Lipkin, Professor of Pediatrics at Kennedy Krieger, emphasized the importance of asking children about suicidal thoughts.
"The simple act of asking children directly about their thoughts and feelings can save lives," said Lipkin. "Knowing that a child is experiencing this allows us to engage in safety planning and connecting the family with resources. The Kennedy Krieger screening program can serve as a model for other places as we strive to help children and families nationwide."