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Open Access 30-09-2024 | Suicide | Review

Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in People on the Autism Spectrum

Authors: Morganne Reid, Daylin Delgado, Julia Heinly, Bridgett Kiernan, Samantha Shapiro, Lisa Morgan, Brenna Maddox, Shari Jager-Hyman

Published in: Current Psychiatry Reports

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review synthesizes recent research on suicidal thoughts and behaviors among autistic individuals. We present literature on risk and protective factors, risk assessment, intervention, and crisis services, and recommendations for future research.

Recent Findings

Literature on this topic has grown substantially in recent years. Areas of advancement include improved understanding of risk factors (e.g., Interpersonal Theory of Suicide constructs, autistic burnout, mental health conditions, cognitive factors, diagnosis timing, emotion dysregulation), screening, assessment, acute-care services, and suicide-specific psychosocial treatments (e.g., safety planning, dialectical behavior therapy). Gaps include protective factors, impact of intersectional identities, and tailored approaches to screening, assessment, and intervention.

Summary

Heightened awareness of suicide risk in autistic individuals has led to increased understanding of why autistic individuals think about and attempt suicide and the strategies used to identify and reduce suicide risk. We recommend community-partnered, multi-faceted, and strength-based approaches to inform tailored prevention and intervention efforts.
Literature
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Metadata
Title
Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in People on the Autism Spectrum
Authors
Morganne Reid
Daylin Delgado
Julia Heinly
Bridgett Kiernan
Samantha Shapiro
Lisa Morgan
Brenna Maddox
Shari Jager-Hyman
Publication date
30-09-2024
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Psychiatry Reports
Print ISSN: 1523-3812
Electronic ISSN: 1535-1645
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-024-01533-0