Validation and application of the Chinese version of the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale: Suicidality and cognitive deficits in patients with major depressive disorder

Abstract

BackgroundDepression is a significant risk factor for death by suicide. Additionally, patients with depression who have neurocognitive dysfunction are at a higher risk of exhibiting suicidal behaviors. We aimed to validate the Chinese version of the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) and then employ it to examine the association between suicidality and cognitive deficits in patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). MethodsData from 456 patients with MDD who underwent baseline assessment and 3-month follow-up were used for psychometric validation of the C-SSRS. 430 patients were divided into a mild cognitive impairment group (N = 390) and a severe cognitive impairment group (N = 40) using cluster analysis and compared with healthy controls. The relationship between C-SSRS scores and the degree of cognitive impairment was analyzed. Results1) The Chinese version of C-SSRS demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.884/0.842), convergent and divergent validity. 2) The severity of suicidal ideation (SI), the intensity of SI, and the lifetime history of suicide attempts were significant independent predictors of short-term suicide attempts. 3) Higher worst-point lifetime SI severity and intensity scores in patients with MDD were significantly associated with severe cognitive impairment. LimitationsThe analysis of cognition and suicide was based on cross-sectional studies. Hence, changes in SI and cognitive function over time could not be analyzed. ConclusionsThe Chinese C-SSRS is a reliable and valid assessment tool for suicidal ideation and behavior in patients with depression. Suicidal ideation in patients with MDD is associated with cognitive dysfunction. These findings provide a reference for suicide prevention in patients with depression.