Adjustment disorder and suicidal behaviours presenting in the general medical setting: A systematic review
Fegan, Joanne Doherty, Anne M.
Fegan, Joanne
Doherty, Anne M.
Loading...
Repository DOI
Publication Date
2019-08-18
Type
Article
Downloads
Citation
Fegan J;Doherty AM; (2019) 'Adjustment Disorder and Suicidal Behaviours Presenting in the General Medical Setting: A Systematic Review'. International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health, 16 (16), doi:10.3390/ijerph16162967
Abstract
Background: Adjustment disorder (AD) is a condition commonly encountered by clinicians in emergency departments and liaison psychiatry settings and has been frequently reported among patients presenting with suicidal behaviours. A number of previous studies have noted the strong association between suicidal ideation and behaviours, and AD. In this paper, we aimed to explore this relationship, by establishing the incidence of AD in patients who present with self-harm and suicidal ideation, and the rates of self-harm among patients with a diagnosis of AD. Methods: We conducted a review of the literature of well-established databases using specific key words then synthesised the results into a descriptive narrative as well as representing it in table form. Results: Sample sizes and study methods varied significantly across the review. A majority of studies were retrospective chart-based reviews, and only three used structured diagnostic instruments. A high prevalence of AD (ranging from 9.8 to 100%) was found, with self-poisoning representing the most common form of suicide attempt in the majority of studies. Interpersonal difficulties were the main precipitant in studies which examined this. Conclusions: This study suggests there is a strong association between AD and suicidal behaviours. Given the paucity of research in the area, there is a need to build the evidence base for effective treatment strategies.
Funder
Publisher
MDPI
Publisher DOI
10.3390/ijerph16162967
Rights
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Ireland