Citation

Brook R, Klap R, Liao D, Wells KB. Gen. Hosp. Psychiatry 2006; 28(4): 271-277.

Affiliation

Health Services Research Center, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2006.01.001

PMID

16814625

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To estimate mental health and substance abuse services use for adults with and without suicide ideation. METHOD: 2000-2001 follow-up of respondents to a nationally representative survey. Measures include self-reports of suicide ideation, specialty and primary care mental health services use, past year counseling, psychotropic medications and perceived need. RESULTS: The percentage of respondents who reported suicide ideation was 3.6%; 74% of them had a probable psychiatric disorder for which effective treatments exist. Nearly half of those with suicide ideation did not perceive a need for care, including some who received care. Of those with suicide ideation and a probable disorder, almost 40% received no treatment. Of those with suicide ideation who perceived a need for alcohol, drug or mental health (ADM) care, almost 40% received no care or inadequate care. In a multivariate model, having a probable psychiatric disorder, perceived need and being white were associated with increased likelihood of treatment use, among persons with suicide ideation. CONCLUSIONS: Many adults with suicide ideation do not perceive a need for care or receive treatment in the same year. Even among those perceiving a need for care, many experience difficulties in obtaining it. It is critical to understand barriers to treatments for this high-risk group.

Language: en