Citation

Baldwin MR. Int. J. Circumpolar Health. 2007; 66(Suppl 1): 54-60.

Affiliation

Behavioral Services Division, Southcentral Foundation, Anchorage, Alaska 99508, USA mrbaldwin@southcentralfoundation.com

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, International Union for Circumpolar Health, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

18154233

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To present a clinical case report and provide a review of the available literature on fetal alcohol syndrome and the fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and suicidality to highlight important implications for providers. STUDY DESIGN: A case report and literature review. RESULTS: Almost 6% of adolescents evaluated by the fetal alcohol spectrum disorders diagnostic clinic at the Alaska Native Medical Center had been seen for self-harm related consultation. CONCLUSIONS: Persons with the fetal alcohol syndrome and the fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, as a result of their disability, demonstrate characteristics or features that are commonly thought to be risk factors for suicide-such as mental illness, alcohol and other drug abuse, impulsivity, history of trauma or abuse, and employment and relationship/social difficulties. These persons may experience mental health problems, including suicidal ideation and attempts, over the course of their life times.

Language: en