Eye-opening research finds a strong correlation between learning disabilities and suicidal behavior, particularly in adult women. A large Canadian study found that people with learning disabilities — particularly women — had a much higher rate of suicidal behavior than did the general population, even when controlling for risk factors like depression, substance abuse, and economic status.
The University of Toronto Study Between Suicide and Learning Disabilities
A 2017 study by the University of Toronto found that women with learning disabilities have a much higher lifetime prevalence of suicide attempts (16.6%) compared to women without learning disabilities (3.3%). Men with learning disabilities are also more likely to have attempted suicide compared to men without learning disorders (7.7% vs. 2.1%).
Adults with learning disabilities still had 46% higher odds of having attempted suicide than their peers without learning problems, even when considering a wide range of other risk factors, including lifetime history of depression and substance abuse, ADHD, early adversities, age, race, sex, income, and education. Childhood sexual abuse and depression are well-established risk factors for suicidal behaviors.
Another recent study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research by the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions sheds new light on suicidal behaviors among different disability types. According to the study, individuals with cognitive, complex activity (functional limitations in self-care and/or independent living tasks) and multiple limitations have the highest risk of suicidal thoughts, suicide planning, and suicide attempts.
According to Nicole Marlow, Ph.D., M.S.P.H., a research assistant professor in the Department of Health Services Research, Management and Policy at the University of Florida's College of Public Health and Health Professions (UF PHHP), the results of the study have significant implications for developing targeted suicide prevention strategies. She suggests that screening, assessing, and treating people with disabilities at risk of suicide as early as possible is crucial.
In this study, researchers analyzed data from the 2015-2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which includes questions on suicidal ideation, plans, and attempts. The dataset included 36,500 adults with at least one functional disability. The team found that among all adults with a disability, 6.6% reported suicidal ideation only, 2.1% reported suicide planning without an attempt, and 1.5% reported suicide attempts.
Participants with a cognitive limitation, a complex activity limitation, or two or more limitations were likelier than participants with other disability types to report suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts.
Several studies have linked specific learning disorders (SLDs) with suicidal ideation, but less is known about the disorders' association with suicide attempts. The personal and familial stress that often comes with learning disabilities may be related to the correlation between SLDs and suicidal behavior.
The causal link between learning disabilities and suicide attempts is unknown. Still, the studies’ authors speculated that high rates of sexual and physical abuse in this population may be to blame. Adults with learning disabilities who reported being abused in childhood had nearly double the lifetime risk of attempting suicide. This correlation also may be related to the personal and familial stress that often comes with learning disabilities.
Lead author Professor Esme Fuller-Thomson emphasized the importance of proactive identification and treatment for individuals with learning disabilities who may struggle with suicidal tendencies due to a lack of academic and/or social support.
"Our findings of the strong link between learning disabilities and suicide attempts provide an additional reason to prioritize the early detection and timely provision of effective educational interventions for children with dyslexia and other learning problems," Fuller-Thomson said. “In addition to the benefits of these treatments for improving learning skills and academic success, it is possible that they may also decrease long-term suicide risk.
“It is unacceptable that many children with learning disabilities languish for years on waiting-lists for needed educational interventions,” she concluded.
What can you be done to help people with learning disabilities?
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, it is crucial to seek help and support as soon as possible. These thoughts and behaviors are often the result of a complex interaction of factors, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, or other mental health conditions. They are not a sign of weakness but a symptom of a treatable condition affecting millions worldwide.
Fortunately, many effective treatments and interventions are available for people struggling with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. These may include therapy, medication, support groups, lifestyle changes, and hospitalization in severe cases. Working with a trained mental health professional who can help you identify the underlying causes of your distress and develop a personalized treatment plan is important.
In addition, many resources and organizations provide information, education, and support to those affected by suicide. These may include national hotlines, local crisis centers, online forums, and peer support groups. It is important to reach out to these resources and connect with others who have gone through similar experiences.
Remember, seeking help for suicidal thoughts and behaviors is a sign of strength and courage, not weakness or shame. You are not alone, and with the right support and treatment, you can overcome this challenge and live a fulfilling life.
Treatment options may include therapy, medication, hospitalization, or a combination. Contacting a mental health professional or crisis hotline for help is important. In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988. Remember that there is no shame in seeking help and support.
Source:
Comments