Irregular sleep patterns are a predictor of increased risk for suicide in young people, according to a new study from Stanford University.
Dr. Rebecca Bernert and her colleagues studied 49 suicidal college students for three weeks. Sleep irregularity was a "stand-alone" risk factor for suicidal thoughts and attempts.
"Compared to other suicide risk factors such as a past suicide attempt, disturbed sleep is modifiable, often invisible and amenable to treatment," Dr. Bernert said. "The study of sleep may inform suicide risk assessment and represent a clinically unique opportunity for intervention."
The study was presented at the meeting of Associated Sleep Societies.
Labels: suicide, sleep problems
Posted By: Aspen/CRC