Nonsuicidal self-injury, suicide ideation and suicide attempts in the National Guard

Abstract

BackgroundAmong members of the National Guard, suicide rates are higher than age and sex matched civilian counterparts. Across many civilian samples, nonsuicidal self-injury has emerged as a particularly strong correlate of suicide risk. The current study describes the prevalence and correlates of NSSI and suicidal thoughts and behaviors among National Guard members. MethodsParticipants were 897 National Guard personnel recruited online who completed study measures anonymously. ResultsApproximately 6% of males and 14% of females reported a history of NSSI. Almost one third of the sample reported suicide ideation and 3% of men and 11% of women reported a suicide attempt. NSSI was strongly associated with a history of suicide ideation and attempts. Characteristics of NSSI were similar across men and women. DiscussionReliable access to effective interventions is essential for National Guard members in light of their risk for suicidal and nonsuicidal self-injurious behavior.