Prospective associations of emotion reactivity and risk behaviors with suicide attempts in US Army soldiers

Psychol Med. 2023 Oct;53(13):6124-6131. doi: 10.1017/S0033291722003300. Epub 2022 Nov 4.

Abstract

Background: Emotion reactivity and risk behaviors (ERRB) are transdiagnostic dimensions associated with suicide attempt (SA). ERRB patterns may identify individuals at increased risk of future SAs.

Methods: A representative sample of US Army soldiers entering basic combat training (n = 21 772) was surveyed and followed via administrative records for their first 48 months of service. Latent profile analysis of baseline survey items assessing ERRB dimensions, including emotion reactivity, impulsivity, and risk-taking behaviors, identified distinct response patterns (classes). SAs were identified using administrative medical records. A discrete-time survival framework was used to examine associations of ERRB classes with subsequent SA during the first 48 months of service, adjusting for time in service, socio-demographic and service-related variables, and mental health diagnosis (MH-Dx). We examined whether associations of ERRB classes with SA differed by year of service and for soldiers with and without a MH-Dx.

Results: Of 21 772 respondents (86.2% male, 61.8% White non-Hispanic), 253 made a SA. Four ERRB classes were identified: 'Indirect Harming' (8.9% of soldiers), 'Impulsive' (19.3%), 'Risk-Taking' (16.3%), and 'Low ERRB' (55.6%). Compared to Low ERRB, Impulsive [OR 1.8 (95% CI 1.3-2.4)] and Risk-Taking [OR 1.6 (95% CI 1.1-2.2)] had higher odds of SA after adjusting for covariates. The ERRB class and MH-Dx interaction was non-significant. Within each class, SA risk varied across service time.

Conclusions: SA risk within the four identified ERRB classes varied across service time. Impulsive and Risk-Taking soldiers had increased risk of future SA. MH-Dx did not modify these associations, which may therefore help identify risk in those not yet receiving mental healthcare.

Keywords: Military; emotion reactivity; impulsivity; risk-taking; suicide; suicide attempt.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Emotions
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Military Personnel* / psychology
  • Risk Factors
  • Risk-Taking
  • Suicidal Ideation
  • Suicide, Attempted*
  • United States / epidemiology