Childhood Exposure to Caregiver Suicidal Behavior and Risk for Adult Suicide Attempts: Findings from a National Survey

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between exposure to caregiver suicidality and subsequent adult suicide attempt ( SA). Data came from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions Wave 2 (n = 34,653). Respondents were asked if they had a caregiver attempt or complete suicide during childhood. Logistic regression examined associations between SA and caregiver suicidality. Compared to individuals with no suicidality, risk for lifetime SA was higher for individuals that were exposed to a SA (15.6%, [OR] = 5.86, 95% [CI] = 4.57-7.51) and for those who experienced a death by suicide (6.1%, [OR] = 2.08, CI = 1.32-3.26]. Associations remained significant after controlling for demographics, Axis I and II disorders and childhood adversity. Individuals with exposure to suicidality are at increased odds for SA.