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Dalum HS, Hem E, Ekeberg Ø, Reneflot A, Stene-Larsen K, Hauge LJ. Suicide rates among health-care professionals in Norway 1980-2021. J Affect Disord 2024; 355:399-405. [PMID: 38537752 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.03.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide rates have been high in several health-care professions. Suicide rates were described in physicians, dentists, veterinarians, psychologists, pharmacists, nurses, as well as theologians, other graduates and the general population in Norway. METHODS Data on educational attainment were linked to data on suicide and all-cause mortality from 1980 to 2021. Suicide rates were reported per 100,000 person-years. The total number of person-years included in the study was 66.4 and 67.2 million for males and females, respectively. RESULTS Between 1980 and 2021, male veterinarians (35.9, 95 % CI 19.3-52.4), physicians (25.7, 21.3-30.2) and nurses (22.2, 16.6-27.7) had higher suicide rates compared others with higher education (11.7, 10.7-12.7). For females, this was the case for psychologists (15.0, 8.2-21.7) and nurses (9.3, 8.3-10.3), vs. others with higher education (5.1, 4.2-6.0). Suicide rates declined over the four decades for most groups. For physicians, suicide rates declined and approached the suicide rate of others with higher education. Suicide rates among physicians increased with age, with physicians over 60 years having twice as high suicide rates compared to others with higher education. LIMITATIONS The study included only educational status, not current occupation or employment status. This is a descriptive study, with some known risk factors for suicide not accounted for. CONCLUSIONS Suicide rates for physicians declined over time, but not for nurses. From 2010 to 2021, nurses of both genders was the only group with higher suicide rates compared to other graduates. The increased suicide rates among veterinarians, nurses, female psychologists and elderly physicians are concerning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Seljenes Dalum
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; Institute for Studies of the Medical Profession, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Erlend Hem
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; Institute for Studies of the Medical Profession, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øivind Ekeberg
- Psychosomatic and CL Psychiatry, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Reneflot
- Department of Mental Health and Suicide, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kim Stene-Larsen
- Department of Mental Health and Suicide, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Johan Hauge
- Department of Mental Health and Suicide, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Stack S. Suicide Among Roofers: Injury, Pain & Substance Misuse. Arch Suicide Res 2023:1-17. [PMID: 37797624 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2023.2262535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE CDC has called for suicide research on the construction industry, an industry with a high suicide rate. The present study addresses this gap and focuses on roofers. It assesses which risk factors distinguish suicides by roofers from those of the general population. Alcohol and drug misuse, related to their high incidence of injury and pain, are seen as key potential drivers of roofer suicide. METHODOLOGY Data refer to 30,570 suicides and are taken from the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS). Drawing from previous work on the health professions, 15 core predictors are selected, representing psychiatric morbidity, social strains, and demographics. Since the analysis seeks to differentiate roofers' suicides from others, the dependent variable is a dichotomy where roofers' suicides (=1) and other suicides (=0). RESULTS After adjusting for the other 14 risk factors, a multivariate logistic regression analysis found that roofers' suicides were 76% more apt (Odds ratio = 1.76, CI: 1.18, 2.63) than other suicides to have a known substance or alcohol problem that contributed to their suicide. Other constructs differentiating roofers' suicides from other suicides included marital status, gender, and race. Roofers were less protected by marriage. CONCLUSION The results inform prevention efforts and substance misuse can serve as a key warning sign for roofers' suicide. This is the first investigation of the drivers of suicide among roofers, and one of a few drawing links between occupational injury and suicide.
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Stack S, Bowman BA. Suicide among lawyers: Role of job problems. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2023; 53:312-319. [PMID: 36715003 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suicide research has neglected the legal profession. The present investigation determines what risk factors distinguish lawyers' suicides from those of the general population. Given the substantial investment in their careers, client dependency, and ongoing stress of work, job problems are seen as key potential drivers of lawyers' suicides. METHODOLOGY Data are from the National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS). They refer to 30,570 suicides. Fifteen predictors, including social strains, psychiatric morbidity, and demographics, are assessed as possible drivers of lawyers' suicides. The dependent variable is a dichotomy where lawyers' suicides = 1 and other suicides = 0. RESULTS The results of a multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that after adjusting for the other 14 risk factors, lawyers' suicides were 91% more apt (Odds ratio = 1.91, CI: 1.17, 3.14) than other suicides to have job problems that contributed to their suicide. Other constructs differentiating lawyers' suicides from other suicides included presence of a known mental health problem, age, presence of a known substance abuse problem, and marital status. The full model correctly classified 99.57% of the suicides. CONCLUSION Job problems can serve as a key warning sign for lawyers' suicides. This is the first investigation of the drivers of lawyers' suicides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Stack
- Emeritus Academy, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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Samuels SW, Ringen K, Rom WN, Frank A. Ethical thinking in occupational and environmental medicine: Commentaries from the Selikoff Fund for Occupational and Environmental Cancer Research. Am J Ind Med 2022; 65:286-320. [PMID: 35156722 PMCID: PMC9302668 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
A tribute to Dr. Irving J. Selikoff MD, the founder of this journal, is indeed welcome now more than two decades after his passing. He was known during his lifetime as the US Father of Environmental Medicine which at the time encompassed occupational medicine and much more as industry also polluted the general environment. The 1970s were a busy time as OSHA and the EPA were newly formed and high exposures to workers were no exception. Dr. Selikoff was a brave pioneer examining workers throughout the country and Canada, publicizing their exposures, and writing and presenting the scientific results. Industry was not always receptive and controlled an astounding amount of narrative, with the creation of the American Journal of Industrial Medicine filling a void of scientific need. We four authors write about the ethics of occupational health, the plight of nuclear energy workers, the climate crisis and opportunity for unions to engage workers, and the global march toward educating medical students on workers' health and safety. All four of us interacted with Dr. Selikoff during his tenure at Mount Sinai, and over the years joined each other in promoting his legacy. Toward that end we have written articles honoring his memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheldon W. Samuels
- Executive Vice President Irving J. Selikoff Fund for Occupational and Environmental Cancer Research Alexandria Virginia USA
| | - Knut Ringen
- Stoneturn Consultants; Senior Science Advisor The Center for Construction Research and Training Seattle Washington USA
| | - William N. Rom
- Department of Global and Environmental Health NYU School of Global Public Health New York New York USA
| | - Arthur Frank
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Drexel Dornsife School of Public Health Philadelphia Pennsylvania USA
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Jang J, Kim Y, Song J, Kim I. Occupation, work-related stress, and personal characteristics among suicide deaths with occupation-related compensation claims in Korea. J Occup Health 2021; 63:e12233. [PMID: 33991042 PMCID: PMC8122011 DOI: 10.1002/1348-9585.12233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study compared differences in age‐standardized suicide mortality rates, personal characteristics (demographics, employment conditions, and details of suicide), and work‐related stress by gender and occupation among workers who had committed suicide in Korea. Methods Data comprised 413 suicide death claims lodged with the Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance (IACI) from 2010 to 2018, which were coded. We calculated age‐standardized suicide mortality rates by gender and occupation. The chi‐square test, Fisher's exact test, and t‐test were conducted to examine gender differences. Frequency and percentage distribution by gender and occupation were calculated using descriptive statistics. Results Regardless of gender, age‐standardized suicide mortality rate was highest among “Managers.” Women who died by suicide were significantly younger and more likely to be unmarried, live alone, and have fewer years of continuous employment than men. “Managers,” “Professionals and Related Workers,” and “Clerks” experienced similar work‐related stresses, including “Difficult work to achieve,” “Fail to achieve allocation workload,” and “Change of job contents or workload.” “Skilled Agricultural, Forestry and Fishery Workers,” “Craft and Related Trades Workers,” and “Equipment, Machine Operating and Assembling Workers” had higher work‐related stress related to “Severe disease/injury” or “Causing a serious accident” compared with other workers. Conclusions Work‐related stress related to suicide deaths differed by gender and occupation. The gender gap of labor market participation in Korea may affect gender differences in terms of demographics and employment conditions among workers who died by suicide. Our study suggests that gender‐ and occupation‐specific strategies and policies to reduce work‐related stress can prevent suicide among workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungwon Jang
- Institute for Health and Society, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yangwoo Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Hanyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaechul Song
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Inah Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Beschoner P, von Wietersheim J, Jarczok MN, Braun M, Schönfeldt-Lecuona C, Viviani R, Jerg-Bretzke L, Kempf M, Brück A. Effort-Reward-Imbalance, Burnout, and Depression Among Psychiatrists 2006 and 2016-Changes After a Legislative Intervention. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:641912. [PMID: 33889101 PMCID: PMC8055815 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.641912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Physicians, especially psychiatrists, have a high risk of job-related stress, and mental impairment. In our study we examined changes in private and occupational stress factors and mental health within a decade. The legislative reduction of physicians' working hours in Germany during this period made it possible to investigate the impact of working hours in particular. Methods: Questionnaires were administered at two psychiatrist meetings (2006 and 2016) about job and family situation, depressiveness, burnout and effort-reward imbalance. A total of N = 1,797 datasets were analyzed. Results: Working hours and free weekends were associated with mental health indices. Correlation analyses showed that a reduction in weekly working hours and working days at weekends was related to reduced scores for effort-reward-imbalance, burnout and depression. Conclusions: Our data show changes in workplace stress and mental health in psychiatrists in a decade in which a reduction in working hours has been required by law. These results can provide indications of effective prevention strategies in the professional context of physicians working in psychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Beschoner
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jörn von Wietersheim
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Marc N. Jarczok
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Maxi Braun
- Clinic for Ophthalmology, Marienhospital Osnabrück, Osnabrück, Germany
| | | | - Roberto Viviani
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy III, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Lucia Jerg-Bretzke
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Maximilian Kempf
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Aniela Brück
- Institute of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Lee WJ, Cha ES, Bang YJ, Hsu CY, Chang SS. Suicide deaths among diagnostic medical radiation workers in South Korea, 1996–2017. Occup Environ Med 2020; 77:675-680. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2020-106446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
ObjectivesSuicide is a leading cause of death in the working-age population. We investigated suicide mortality among diagnostic medical radiation workers in relation to their demographic and occupational factors in South Korea.MethodsThe study population consisted of all diagnostic medical radiation workers enrolled in the National Dosimetry Registry from 1996 to 2011. The registry data were linked with mortality data through the end of 2017. We calculated age-standardised suicide rates, standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) and rate ratios (RRs) by demographic and occupational factors.ResultsA total of 207 suicides were identified among 94 367 medical radiation workers, exhibiting a suicide rate of 14.0 per 100 000 person-years. Compared with the general population, suicide rates were lower for both male and female workers (SMR 0.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.42 to 0.57; SMR 0.54, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.70, respectively). Similarly, decreased SMRs were observed across job titles and other work-related factors. However, a shorter duration of employment was positively associated with RRs for suicide; risks were 2.74 (95% CI 1.56 to 4.81) and 4.66 (95% CI 1.53 to 14.20) times higher in male and female workers with less than 1 year of employment, respectively, than in those with at least 10 years of employment.ConclusionsDiagnostic medical radiation workers in South Korea showed lower suicide rates than in the general population. However, a shorter duration of employment was associated with higher risk of suicide. Suicide prevention efforts could target workers engaged in short-term employment.
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Barbalat G, Franck N. Ecological study of the association between mental illness with human development, income inequalities and unemployment across OECD countries. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035055. [PMID: 32317261 PMCID: PMC7204933 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Recent studies have demonstrated worsened mental health in relatively highly developed countries impacted by social inequalities and unemployment. Here, we investigate (1) whether mental health issues are differently or similarly affected by these social factors and (2) whether their effects on mental health are related or unrelated to each other. SETTING Analysis at the country level among Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries (n=36). Data on social indicators were collected from OECD and the United Nations Development Programme databases. Data on the prevalence of mental issues were obtained from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation's Global Burden of Disease study 2017. PARTICIPANTS No involvement of participants. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Using linear regression models, we investigated the relative contribution played by human development (as measured by the Human Development Index (HDI)), social inequalities (Gini index) and unemployment (unemployment rate) on the prevalence of 10 mental health issues. We then measured the relationship between the socioeconomic factors' effects on mental issues using 2×2 Pearson's correlation test and principal component analysis. RESULTS First, the overall effect of each socioeconomic factor on a combination of mental health disorders was large (r range: 0.51 to 0.76; p<0.002). However, the influence of social factors on mental health was relative to each mental issue (r range: -0.34 to 0.74). Second, the socioeconomic factors' effects on mental health showed strong interdependence (rHDI-Gini=0.93, rHDI-unemploy=0.81, runemploy-Gini=0.84; p<0.001. Principal component analysis demonstrated that the first principal component of the three variables (rHDI, rGini, runemploy) explained 91.5% of the variance. CONCLUSION These results implore a reanalysis of the socioeconomic determinants of mental health where (1) the heterogeneity of mental health issues would be taken into account and (2) each socioeconomic indicator's effect would be analysed and interpreted in conjunction with the others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Barbalat
- Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier & UMR 5229, CNRS & Université Lyon 1, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Franck
- Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier & UMR 5229, CNRS & Université Lyon 1, Lyon, France
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López Steinmetz LC, López Steinmetz RL, Godoy JC. Is unemployment less important than expected for suicide attempted in developing regions? Occupational profile of suicide attempts in Jujuy, north westernmost Argentina. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2020; 66:67-75. [PMID: 31623478 DOI: 10.1177/0020764019882728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health practices consider unemployment as a suicide main risk factor, based on models built for populations of developed countries. AIM This study assesses the association between the occupational risk factor and suicidal behaviors, by considering sex, age and temporal distribution, in a Latin American Andean population from north westernmost Argentina. METHODS Data include 481 suicide attempt cases assisted by emergency service psychologists at a head hospital in the Jujuy Province, northern Argentina, during two biennials. General categories and specific types of occupational situation, sex, age and temporal distribution were analyzed. RESULTS 83.58% of cases corresponded to the with occupation category, but without occupation characterized male cases (p-value = .01). The type no referred occupation (19.15%) mainly contributed to this association (p-value = .02). Unemployed only represented 1.6%. These features revealed independent from the biennial period of assistance (p-value = .96 (general), p-value = .86 (specific)). Associations by age ranges did not seem to be specific of suicidal attempts. CONCLUSION The present contribution provides an occupational characterization of suicide attempts in an Andean population from north westernmost Argentina. Unemployment is not associated with suicidal behavior in this population, suggesting that dissimilar patterns underlie suicidal behavior of populations from developed and developing regions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan Carlos Godoy
- Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Psicología, Instituto de Investigaciones Psicológicas (IIPsi-UNC-CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
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[Occupational factors associated with suicide among French employees from the special agricultural social security scheme (MSA) working between 2007 and 2013]. Rev Epidemiol Sante Publique 2019; 68:1-8. [PMID: 31843361 DOI: 10.1016/j.respe.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Work and related exposures may play a role in suicide and there has been evidence in the literature that some occupational factors may be associated with suicide. The identification of occupational risk factors of suicide mortality among employees affiliated to the French special agricultural social security scheme (MSA), an understudied population, appears important. The objective of this study was to identify the occupational factors associated with suicide mortality among French employees from the MSA working between 2007 and 2013. METHODS The study population included all the employees affiliated to the MSA working between 1st January 2007 and 31st December 2013, i.e. 1,699,929 men and 1,201,017 women. The studied occupational factors included: economic activity, skill level, and work contract. Survival analyses (Cox models) stratified on gender were performed using age as time scale and region and year of contract as adjustment variables. RESULTS Among men, the factors associated with an elevated suicide risk were: economic activities of forestry, agriculture and related activities, and manufacture of food products and beverages (e.g. meat, wine), low-skilled level and working in the regions of Brittany, Burgundy Franche-Comté, Pays de la Loire, Normandy, Grand Est and Centre-Val-de-Loire. No association was observed among women. CONCLUSION These results suggest that economic activity and low-skilled level may be associated with suicide among men affiliated to the MSA and may contribute to the implementation of prevention interventions. Further studies are needed to confirm and better understand these associations.
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Lestari F, Bowolaksono A, Yuniautami S, Wulandari TR, Andani S. Evaluation of the implementation of occupational health, safety, and environment management systems in higher education laboratories. ACS CHEMICAL HEALTH & SAFETY 2019; 26:14-19. [PMID: 32288875 PMCID: PMC7102750 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchas.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Laboratory researchers and students may expose to hazardous and toxic chemicals. Implementation of the Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment Management System (OHSEMS) has become a critical aspect in higher education. This study presents an overview of the evaluation of the implementation of the OHSEMS in higher education laboratories. The implementation of the OHSEMS is to prevent occupational accidents in the laboratory. The study design is a semiquantitative descriptive study. The aim of the study is to evaluate the implementation of the OHSEMS in higher education institution laboratories by evaluating the percentages of OHSEMS compliance in higher education laboratories. Five aspects are evaluated: occupational health, safety, and environment (OHSE) policy and commitment, planning, implementation, evaluation, and management review. The result shows that the average compliance with the OHSE policy and commitment aspect is 59.4% and for the planning, implementation, evaluation, and management review, the average compliance percentage are 33.0%, 65.3%, 26.0%, and 0.0%, respectively.
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12
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Milner A, LaMontagne AD, Spittal MJ, Pirkis J, Currier D. Job Stressors and Employment Precarity as Risks for Thoughts About Suicide: An Australian Study Using the Ten to Men Cohort. Ann Work Expo Health 2019; 62:583-590. [PMID: 29635407 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxy024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Past research suggests that adverse experiences at work (such as job stressors and precarious employment) are associated with thoughts about suicide, especially among males. A limitation of this research is that it is largely cross-sectional. Thus, it is unknown whether job stressors are a prior cause of thoughts about suicide. This study examined the baseline association between adverse experiences at work and thoughts about suicide at follow-up in a large nationally representative cohort of employed men. Methods We used data from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Male Health (Ten to Men). The outcome was thoughts about suicide in the prior 12 months (reported in wave 2) and the key exposure variables were: high job demands, low job control, job insecurity, perceived unfairness of pay, occupational skill level, and employment arrangement (all reported in wave 1). We adjusted for possible confounders, including mental health and suicidal thoughts (wave 1). Results In a sample of 8379 and after adjustment, job insecurity (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.13-1.61, P = 0.001), low job control (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.06-1.33, P = 0.004), and employment on a casual or on a fixed term basis (OR 1.30, 95% 1.01-1.67, P = 0.041) were associated with a greater odds of thoughts about suicide at follow up. Results for all by job control were maintained after removing those who reported thoughts of suicide at baseline. Conclusion This study suggests that experiences at work may be risk factors for thoughts about suicide among employed men. More research is needed to unpack the complex associations between, employment, and experiences of suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Milner
- Centre for Health Equity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Centre for Population Health Research, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Anthony D LaMontagne
- Centre for Health Equity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Centre for Population Health Research, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Matthew J Spittal
- Centre for Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jane Pirkis
- Centre for Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dianne Currier
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Ibrahim N, Che Din N, Ahmad M, Amit N, Ghazali SE, Wahab S, Abdul Kadir NB, Halim FW, A Halim MRT. The role of social support and spiritual wellbeing in predicting suicidal ideation among marginalized adolescents in Malaysia. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:553. [PMID: 31196009 PMCID: PMC6565529 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-6861-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The high number of adolescents and young adults harbouring suicidal ideation, as reported by the Ministry of Health Malaysia, is alarming. This cross-sectional study aims to examine the association between social support and spiritual wellbeing in predicting suicidal ideation among Malaysian adolescents. Methods A total of 176 adolescents in selected urban areas in the states of Wilayah Persekutuan and Selangor were selected. The Suicide Ideation Scale (SIS) was used to measure the level of severity or tendency of suicidal ideation. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) was used to measure the perceived social support received by the respondent while the Spiritual Wellbeing Scale (SWBS) was used to measure the religious wellbeing (RWB), the existential wellbeing (EWB) and the overall score of spiritual wellbeing (SWB). Results The study found that both RWB and EWB showed significant negative correlation with suicidal ideation. Similarly, support from family and friends also showed a negative correlation with suicidal ideation. Further analysis using multiple regressions showed that RWB and SWB, and family support predict suicidal ideation in adolescents. Conclusion Spiritual wellbeing in combination with family support plays a major role in predicting suicidal ideation. Therefore, intervention for encompassing spirituality and family support may contribute to a more positive outcome in suicidal adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norhayati Ibrahim
- Health Psychology Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Normah Che Din
- Health Psychology Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mahadir Ahmad
- Health Psychology Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Noh Amit
- Health Psychology Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Shazli Ezzat Ghazali
- Health Psychology Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Suzaily Wahab
- Psychiatry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Bandar Tun Razak Cheras, Malaysia
| | - Nor Ba'yah Abdul Kadir
- Centre of Human and Societal Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Fatimah Wati Halim
- Centre of Human and Societal Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Radzi Tarmizi A Halim
- Centre of Human and Societal Well-being, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
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Srivastava K, Chaudhury S, Bhat PS, Prakash J. Occupation-related suicide. Ind Psychiatry J 2019; 28:1-3. [PMID: 31879439 PMCID: PMC6929231 DOI: 10.4103/ipj.ipj_77_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Suprakash Chaudhury
- Department of Psychiatry, Dr DY Patil Medical College, Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - P S Bhat
- Department of Psychiatry, AFMC, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Jyoti Prakash
- Department of Psychiatry, AFMC, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Howard M, Krannitz M. A Reanalysis of Occupation and Suicide: Negative Perceptions of the Workplace Linked to Suicide Attempts. THE JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2017; 151:767-788. [DOI: 10.1080/00223980.2017.1393378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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16
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Didehvar M, Zareban I, Jalili Z, Bakhshani NM, Shahrakipoor M, Balouchi A. The Effect of Stress Management Training through PRECEDE-PROCEED Model on Occupational Stress among Nurses and Midwives at Iran Hospital, Iranshahr. J Clin Diagn Res 2016; 10:LC01-LC05. [PMID: 27891358 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2016/22569.8674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Occupational stress is a major factor in hindering the performance of nurses and midwives and developing physical and mental complications in them. Given that these two groups are in direct contact with patients more than other medical staff and stress management training can be effective in the reduction of occupational stress among the nurses and midwives. AIM This study was set out to compare the effect of a PRECEDE-PROCEED based stress management training program on the occupational stress of the nurses and midwives. MATERIALS AND METHODS This quasi-experimental study was conducted on the aforementioned nurses and midwives. Data collection instruments included the Nursing Stress Scale (NSS). The training program was held in two 4-hour-long sessions for three months from 1st January to 31st March 2013. RESULTS The results showed a significant increase in the PRECEDE scores of both groups by the end of the program, as compared to the baseline. A significant decrease was also observed in the stress scores of both groups. There was no difference between groups in these regards. CONCLUSION The PRECEDE-based stress management training is effective in the reduction of occupational stress among the nurses and midwives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Didehvar
- Lecturer, Department of Public Health, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences , Iranshahr, Iran
| | - Iraj Zareban
- Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health, Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences , Zahedan, Iran
| | - Zahra Jalili
- Lecturer, Department of Medical, Faculty of Medical, Science and Research Branch, I.A.U , Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nour-Mohammad Bakhshani
- Professor, Department of Clinical Psychology, Children and Adolescent Health Research Center, Department of Clinical Psychology, Zahedan Univer , Zahedan, Sistanvbalouchistan, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Shahrakipoor
- Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Statistics, Faculty of Health, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences , Zahedan, Sistanvbalouchistan, Iran
| | - Abbas Balouchi
- Student, Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Zabol University of Medical Sciences , Zabol, Sistanvbalouchistan, Iran
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Innos K, Rahu K, Baburin A, Rahu M. Cancer incidence and cause-specifi c mortality in male and female physicians: a cohort study in Estonia. Scand J Public Health 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/14034948020300020701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aims: To evaluate whether the presumed knowledge of physicians about healthier lifestyle decreases their risk of cancer and mortality, a retrospective cohort study of male and female physicians was conducted in Estonia. Methods: The cancer incidence and cause-specifi c mortality of 3,673 physicians (870 M, 2,803 F ) in Estonia was compared with the rates of the general population. Information on cancer cases and deaths in the cohort between 1983 and 1998 was obtained from the Estonian Cancer Registry and the mortality database of Estonia. Results: The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) for all cancers was 1.32 (95% confi dence interval (CI) 1.15-1.48) in women and 0.92 (95% CI 0.73-1.13) in men. Female physicians had an elevated risk for breast cancer (SIR 2.03, 95% CI 1.62-2.51) and myeloid leukaemia (SIR 3.69, 95% CI 1.35-8.02). Male physicians had an excess of skin melanoma (SIR 4.88, 95% CI 1.58-11.38). A large defi cit of lung cancer was observed (SIR 0.24, 95% CI 0.11-0.48). The very low all-cause mortality in the cohort (standardized mortality ratio 0.55, 95% CI 0.50-0.61) was mainly due to large defi cits in deaths from lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases and external causes. The suicide rate in the cohort was lower than in the general population. Conclusions: No health risks were observed in the cohort that could be linked to the occupational exposures of physicians. The pattern of cancer incidence and mortality seen in physicians in Estonia is similar to the pattern seen among professional classes in other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaire Innos
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Kaja Rahu
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Aleksei Baburin
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Mati Rahu
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Tallinn, Estonia,
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Modélisation des processus d’épuisement professionnel liés aux facteurs de risques psychosociaux : burn out, bore out, stress chronique, addiction au travail, épuisement compassionnel. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcc.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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19
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Stallones L, Beseler CL. Assessing the connection between organophosphate pesticide poisoning and mental health: A comparison of neuropsychological symptoms from clinical observations, animal models and epidemiological studies. Cortex 2016; 74:405-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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20
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Stanley IH, Hom MA, Joiner TE. A systematic review of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics. Clin Psychol Rev 2015; 44:25-44. [PMID: 26719976 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 190] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
First responders-police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics-experience significant job-related stressors and exposures that may confer increased risk for mental health morbidities (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD], suicidal thoughts and behaviors) and hastened mortality (e.g., death by suicide). Inherent in these occupations, however, are also factors (e.g., camaraderie, pre-enlistment screening) that may inoculate against the development or maintenance of psychiatric conditions. Several reviews of the literature have documented the prevalence and potency of PTSD among first responders; the value of these extant reviews is considerable. Nonetheless, the literature has not been systematically described with regard to suicidality. In this systematic review, we present 63 quantitative studies examining suicidal thoughts, behaviors, and/or fatalities among first responders; identify population-specific risk and protective factors; and pinpoint strengths and weaknesses of the existing literature. Findings reveal elevated risk for suicide among first responders; however, studies utilizing more rigorous methodologies (e.g., longitudinal designs, probability sampling strategies) are sorely needed. First responders have an armamentarium of resources to take care of others; it is the duty of researchers, clinicians, and the public to aid in taking care of their health as well, in part by reducing suicide risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian H Stanley
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, 1107 West Call Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306, United States.
| | - Melanie A Hom
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, 1107 West Call Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306, United States
| | - Thomas E Joiner
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, 1107 West Call Street, Tallahassee, FL 32306, United States
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Alexopoulos EC, Kavalidou K, Messolora F. Suicide Mortality Across Broad Occupational Groups in Greece: A Descriptive Study. Saf Health Work 2015; 7:1-5. [PMID: 27014484 PMCID: PMC4792908 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2015.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several studies have investigated the relationship between specific occupations and suicide mortality, as suicide rates differ by profession. The aim of this study was to investigate suicide mortality ratios across broad occupational groups in Greece for both sexes in the period 2000–2009. Methods Data of suicide deaths were retrieved from the Hellenic Statistical Authority and comparative mortality ratios were calculated. Occupational classification was based on the International Classification of Occupations (ISCO-88) and the coding for Intentional self-harm (X60–X84) was based on the international classification of diseases (ICD-10). Results Male dominant occupations, mainly armed forces, skilled farmers and elementary workers, and female high-skilled occupations were seen as high risk groups for suicide in a period of 10 years. The age-productive group of 30–39 years in Greek male elementary workers and the 50–59 age-productive group of Greek professional women proved to have the most elevated number of suicide deaths. Conclusion Further research is needed into the work-related stressors of occupations with high suicide mortality risk and focused suicide prevention strategies should be applied within vulnerable working age populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katerina Kavalidou
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Gartnavel Royal Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - Fani Messolora
- Peristeri's Regional Health Unit, Social Insurance Institute (IKA), Athens, Greece
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Encrenaz G, Miras A, Contrand B, Séguin M, Moulki M, Queinec R, René JS, Fériot A, Mougin M, Bonfils M, Marien P, Michel G, Lagarde E. [Suicide among the French National Police forces: Implication of life events and life trajectories]. Encephale 2015; 42:304-13. [PMID: 26452434 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2015.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research indicates that suicide rates are high among members of law enforcement. Our objectives were: (1) to determine life events implicated in suicide mortality among French law enforcement; and (2) to describe the different life trajectories of police officers who deceased by suicide. METHODS All suicides of police officers which occurred during 2008 (n=49) were explored using the psychological autopsy method. Key informants were: a supervisor, a colleague and a member of the family or a close friend. Each of them were interviewed by trained psychologists using standardized questionnaires exploring: sociodemographic characteristics, life events, social integration and support, health service use, mental health with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview short form (CIDI-SF), occupational stress with the Spielberger Inventory, impulsiveness with the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale and aggressiveness with the Brown-Goodwin Lifetime Aggression Scale. Information was then summarized in a timetable life trajectory of all life areas. All cases were finally appraised by at least two experts in order to identify the determinants of the suicide and to determine psychiatric diagnoses. For each period of time, a burdensomeness score was determined, from 6 (no adversity) to 1 (adversities in each sphere of life). RESULTS Of the 49 cases of suicide, two were excluded and 39 were investigated and appraised (response rate: 39/47=83%). Eighty-two percent of the suicide cases were men and the mean age at death was 35years. In more than half of the cases, police officers used their service weapon to commit suicide. All deceased police officers were suffering from mental health symptoms (primarily depression). Of them, two thirds had used healthcare for this distress. The main other cause of suicide was problems in the married life (70% of the cases). Four distinct types of life trajectories of adversities could be identified by a qualitative analysis. DISCUSSION It is the first time such a study was performed in France, and results are concordant with those of the literature. This study showed that all deceased police officers were suffering from mental disorders and that there was not one single profile of life trajectory: screening and support of police officers in distress need to be prioritized. Moreover, results suggested that the availability of the service weapon during off-duty periods should be reconsidered. This study helped the Home ministry to elaborate and improve strategies to prevent suicide among police officers.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Encrenaz
- Équipe « prévention et prise en charge des traumatismes », centre Inserm U897, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France; COMPTRASEC UMR 5114 CNRS, université de Bordeaux, avenue Léon-Duguit, 33608 Pessac, France.
| | - A Miras
- Équipe « prévention et prise en charge des traumatismes », centre Inserm U897, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - B Contrand
- Équipe « prévention et prise en charge des traumatismes », centre Inserm U897, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - M Séguin
- Université du Québec en Outaouais et groupe McGill d'étude sur le suicide, institut universitaire Douglas, Canada
| | - M Moulki
- Pôle 347, unité Régis, centre hospitalier Charles-Perrens, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - R Queinec
- Centre hospitalier de Cadillac, 33410 Cadillac, France
| | - J-S René
- Équipe « prévention et prise en charge des traumatismes », centre Inserm U897, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - A Fériot
- Équipe « prévention et prise en charge des traumatismes », centre Inserm U897, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - M Mougin
- Équipe « prévention et prise en charge des traumatismes », centre Inserm U897, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - M Bonfils
- Association Entr'Actes, 92700 Colombes, France
| | - P Marien
- Laboratoire EA psychologie, santé et qualité de vie, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - G Michel
- Laboratoire EA psychologie, santé et qualité de vie, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - E Lagarde
- Équipe « prévention et prise en charge des traumatismes », centre Inserm U897, université de Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux, France
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Tiesman HM, Konda S, Hartley D, Chaumont Menéndez C, Ridenour M, Hendricks S. Suicide in U.S. Workplaces, 2003-2010: a comparison with non-workplace suicides. Am J Prev Med 2015; 48:674-82. [PMID: 25794471 PMCID: PMC4530968 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2014.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Suicide rates have risen considerably in recent years. National workplace suicide trends have not been well documented. The aim of this study is to describe suicides occurring in U.S. workplaces and compare them to suicides occurring outside of the workplace between 2003 and 2010. METHODS Suicide data originated from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injury database and the Web-Based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System. Suicide rates were calculated using denominators from the 2013 Current Population Survey and 2000 U.S. population census. Suicide rates were compared among demographic groups with rate ratios and 95% CIs. Suicide rates were calculated and compared among occupations. Linear regression, adjusting for serial correlation, was used to analyze temporal trends. Analyses were conducted in 2013-2014. RESULTS Between 2003 and 2010, a total of 1,719 people died by suicide in the workplace. Workplace suicide rates generally decreased until 2007 and then sharply increased (p=0.035). This is in contrast with non-workplace suicides, which increased over the study period (p=0.025). Workplace suicide rates were highest for men (2.7 per 1,000,000); workers aged 65-74 years (2.4 per 1,000,000); those in protective service occupations (5.3 per 1,000,000); and those in farming, fishing, and forestry (5.1 per 1,000,000). CONCLUSIONS The upward trend of suicides in the workplace underscores the need for additional research to understand occupation-specific risk factors and develop evidence-based programs that can be implemented in the workplace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hope M Tiesman
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Safety Research, Analysis and Field Evaluations Branch, Morgantown, West Virginia.
| | - Srinivas Konda
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Safety Research, Analysis and Field Evaluations Branch, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Dan Hartley
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Safety Research, Analysis and Field Evaluations Branch, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Cammie Chaumont Menéndez
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Safety Research, Analysis and Field Evaluations Branch, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Marilyn Ridenour
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Safety Research, Analysis and Field Evaluations Branch, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Scott Hendricks
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Division of Safety Research, Analysis and Field Evaluations Branch, Morgantown, West Virginia
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Kim J, Shin DH, Lee WJ. Suicidal ideation and occupational pesticide exposure among male farmers. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2014; 128:52-56. [PMID: 24268919 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2013.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The occupation of farming has been reported to be associated with a high suicide rate, and suicidal ideation is an important risk factor for suicide. The objective of this study was to explore the association between occupational pesticide exposure or poisoning history and suicidal ideation among male farmers in South Korea. METHODS Through a nationwide sampling survey, a total of 1958 male farmers were interviewed in 2011 in South Korea. Detailed occupational pesticide exposure and pesticide poisoning information were obtained from face-to-face interviews. Suicidal ideation was defined as whether they had thought of harming themselves or trying to take their own lives over the preceding year. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the effect of pesticide poisoning on suicidal ideation. RESULTS Among all farmers, 4.7% (n=92) reported suicidal ideation in 2010. After controlling for potential confounders, lifetime hospitalization due to pesticide poisoning showed a 2.48-fold increase in risk (95% CI: 1.26, 4.91). Those with multiple poisonings showed more significant associations with suicidal ideation (OR=2.33 for once, OR=3.02 for more than once). Moderate- or severe-symptom severity of acute pesticide poisoning cases (OR=2.23; 95% CI: 1.21-4.11) also showed increased risks of suicidal ideation than the milder classes did. However, no significant association was identified with cumulative lifetime pesticide application and suicidal ideation. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that risk of suicidal ideation is related to occupational pesticide poisoning among male farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeyoung Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Dong-Hoon Shin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Won Jin Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.
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Milner A, Spittal MJ, Pirkis J, LaMontagne AD. Suicide by occupation: systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Psychiatry 2013; 203:409-16. [PMID: 24297788 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.113.128405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has shown that those employed in certain occupations, such as doctors and farmers, have an elevated risk of suicide, yet little research has sought to synthesise these findings across working-age populations. AIMS To summarise published research in this area through systematic review and meta-analysis. METHOD Random effects meta-analyses were used to calculate a pooled risk of suicide across occupational skill-level groups. RESULTS Thirty-four studies were included in the meta-analysis. Elementary professions (e.g. labourers and cleaners) were at elevated risk compared with the working-age population (rate ratio (RR) = 1.84, 95% CI 1.46-2.33), followed by machine operators and deck crew (RR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.22-2.60) and agricultural workers (RR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.19-2.28). Results suggested a stepwise gradient in risk, with the lowest skilled occupations being at greater risk of suicide than the highest skill-level group. CONCLUSIONS This is the first comprehensive meta-analytical review of suicide and occupation. There is a need for future studies to investigate explanations for the observed skill-level differences, particularly in people employed in lower skill-level groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Milner
- Allison Milner, BpsychSc (Hons), PhD, The McCaughey VicHealth Centre for Community Wellbeing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne; Matthew J. Spittal, PhD, Mbio, Jane Pirkis, BA(Hons), MPsych, MAppEpid, PhD, Centre for Health Policy, Programs and Economics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne; Anthony D. LaMontagne, ScD, MA, MEd, The McCaughey VicHealth Centre for Community Wellbeing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Healthier land, healthier farmers: Considering the potential of natural resource management as a place-focused farmer health intervention. Health Place 2013; 24:97-109. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2013.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Stallones L, Doenges T, Dik BJ, Valley MA. Occupation and suicide: Colorado, 2004-2006. Am J Ind Med 2013; 56:1290-5. [PMID: 23873359 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.22228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupation has been identified as a risk factor for suicide. Changes in work environments over time suggest occupations at high risk of suicide may also change. Therefore, periodic examination of suicide by occupation is warranted. The purpose of this article is to describe suicide rates by occupation, sex, and means used in Colorado for the period 2004-2006. METHODS To provide information useful in designing suicide prevention programs, the methods used in suicide across occupational groups also are examined. Data from the Colorado Violent Death Reporting System (COVDRS) were obtained for suicides that occurred between 2004 and 2006. Denominators to calculate rates by age, sex, and race used are from the 2000 US Census of the Population data. RESULTS Men had higher suicide rates than women in all occupation categories except computers and mathematics. Among men, those in farming, fishing, and forestry (475.6 per 100,000) had the highest age-adjusted suicide rates. Among women, workers with the highest suicide rates were in construction and extraction (134.3 per 100,000). The examination of lethal means showed that workers in farming, fishing, and forestry had higher rates of suicide by firearms (50.18 per 100,000) compared with other workers. Healthcare practitioners and technicians had the highest rate of suicide by poisoning (14.25 per 100,000). Workers involved in construction and extraction (26.43 per 100,000) had higher rates of suicide by hanging, suffocation, or strangling. CONCLUSIONS Significant differences in means of suicide were seen by occupation, which could guide future suicide prevention interventions that may decrease work-related suicide risks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bryan J. Dik
- Department of Psychology; Colorado State University; Fort Collins; Colorado
| | - Morgan A. Valley
- Department of Psychology; Colorado State University; Fort Collins; Colorado
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Pesticides, depression and suicide: A systematic review of the epidemiological evidence. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2013; 216:445-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2012.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 12/13/2012] [Accepted: 12/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Rupp WR, Thierauf A, Nadjem H, Vogt S. Suicide by carbon dioxide. Forensic Sci Int 2013; 231:e30-2. [PMID: 23791381 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Suicides by self-poisoning are common in all parts of the world. Among these intoxications, gases are rarely used, especially carbon dioxide (CO2). Very few cases of self-inflicted and deliberate carbon dioxide poisonings have been reported. This paper presents two uncommon suicides by carbon dioxide intoxication. In one case, a 53-year-old man tightly sealed a small bathroom and locked himself in it likely with dry ice. Warning notices were tagged to the door. In another case, a 48-year-old man working in a restaurant committed suicide by closing himself in a walk-in refrigerator and opening the stored carbon dioxide containers intended for the beverage dispensing equipment. The limited possibilities of proving lethal CO2 intoxications post-mortem necessitate a close cooperation of the involved parties during investigation. Only the synopsis of all findings permits a sound assessment regarding the manner and cause of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolf-Rüdiger Rupp
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Freiburg University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany.
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Platt B, Hawton K, Simkin S, Dean R, Mellanby RJ. Suicidality in the Veterinary Profession. CRISIS 2012; 33:280-9. [DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Suicide rates are elevated in the veterinary profession in several countries, yet little is known about possible contributory and preventive factors. Aims: To obtain information from veterinarians with a history of suicidal ideation or behavior about the factors associated with suicidality in their profession. Methods: We conducted a mixed-methods interview study with 21 UK veterinarians who had attempted suicide or reported recent suicidal ideation. Interview topics included work and nonwork contributory factors, coping mechanisms, and preventive factors. Results: Self-poisoning was the most common method used or considered by participants. Common contributory factors were workplace relationships, career concerns, patient issues, number of hours and volume of work, and responsibility, although two-thirds of participants reported co-occurring difficult life events. Around half had received a psychiatric diagnosis following their suicidal behavior. Several possible preventive measures were suggested by participants. Conclusions: Several work- and non-work-related contributory factors to suicidality in the veterinary profession were identified. Future preventive measures may involve better promotion of support services, formal support for recent graduates, and improving employers’ attitudes toward work-life balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Platt
- Centre for Suicide Research, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Keith Hawton
- Centre for Suicide Research, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Sue Simkin
- Centre for Suicide Research, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Rachel Dean
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, UK
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Platt B, Hawton K, Simkin S, Mellanby RJ. Suicidal behaviour and psychosocial problems in veterinary surgeons: a systematic review. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2012; 47:223-40. [PMID: 21181111 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-010-0328-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2010] [Accepted: 12/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rates of suicide are elevated among veterinary surgeons in several countries, yet little is known about contributory factors. We have conducted a systematic review of studies investigating suicidal behaviour and psychosocial problems in veterinary surgeons. METHODS A systematic search of the international research literature was performed in May 2008. Data from 52 studies of non-fatal suicidal behaviour, mental health difficulties, stress and burnout, occupational difficulties, and psychological characteristics of veterinary surgeons were extracted by two independent reviewers and analysed. Studies were rated for quality and greater emphasis placed on findings from higher quality studies. RESULTS The majority of studies were of stress and occupational difficulties experienced by veterinary surgeons. Occupational stressors included managerial aspects of the job, long working hours, heavy workload, poor work-life balance, difficult client relations, and performing euthanasia. Few studies investigated suicidal behaviour or mental health difficulties in the profession. Some studies suggested that young and female veterinarians are at greatest risk of negative outcomes such as suicidal thoughts, mental health difficulties, and job dissatisfaction. CONCLUSIONS The review highlights the difficulties faced by veterinary surgeons that may contribute to poor mental wellbeing and suicidal behaviour. Future research might include further examination of the influence of euthanasia on attitudes towards suicide and more direct examination of the impact that occupational risk factors might have on suicidal behaviour. Suggestions about the review's implications for suicide prevention in this group are also made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Platt
- Centre for Suicide Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK.
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Routley VH, Ozanne-Smith JE. Work-related suicide in Victoria, Australia: a broad perspective. Int J Inj Contr Saf Promot 2011; 19:131-4. [PMID: 22132703 DOI: 10.1080/17457300.2011.635209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
While unintentional work-related injury is increasingly recognised as important and preventable, population studies of the full range of work related suicides have received less attention. The objective of this study is to investigate the epidemiology of work-related suicide in Victoria, July 2000-December 2007. The study draws on a database of all work-related deaths reported to the Victorian Coroner, inclusive of broadly defined work-relatedness. Inclusion criteria for work-related suicide were at least one of: suicide means was work related, work stressors were identified in police reports to the Coroners or the Coroner's finding, the suicide method involved another person's work (e.g. rail suicide, heavy vehicle) or the suicide location was a workplace. Cases still open for investigation were excluded. Of 642 work-related suicides, 55% had an association with work stressors; 32% jumped or lay in front of a train or heavy vehicle; 7% involved a work location and 6% involved work agents. Work stressor cases identified included business difficulties, recent or previous work injury, unemployment/redundancy or conflict with supervisors/colleagues (including workplace bullying). Work-related suicide is a substantial problem, for which few detailed population wide studies are available. Further research is required to understand the contribution of work stressors and effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Hazel Routley
- Monash Department Forensic Medicine, Monash University, 57 Kavanagh St., Southbank, Melbourne, VIC, 3006, Australia.
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The importance of perceived autonomy support for the psychological health and work satisfaction of health professionals: Not only supervisors count, colleagues too! MOTIVATION AND EMOTION 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s11031-011-9250-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Hawton K, Agerbo E, Simkin S, Platt B, Mellanby RJ. Risk of suicide in medical and related occupational groups: a national study based on Danish case population-based registers. J Affect Disord 2011; 134:320-6. [PMID: 21676470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2011.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2011] [Revised: 05/24/2011] [Accepted: 05/24/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide risk may be elevated in 'medical' occupational groups, although results of studies are inconsistent. National data are required to examine this issue. It is also important to investigate the possible contribution of psychiatric disorder and access to specific suicide methods. METHODS In a nested case-control design we used data from Danish national registers for 1981-2006 to examine risk of suicide in nurses, physicians, dentists, pharmacists and veterinary surgeons compared to teachers and the general population, and associations with psychiatric service contact and suicide methods. RESULTS Crude age- and gender-adjusted rate ratios for suicide compared to teachers were significantly elevated in nurses (RR 1.90, 95% CI 1.63-2.21), physicians (RR 1.87, 95% CI 1.55-2.26), dentists (RR 2.10, 95% CI 1.58-2.79) and pharmacists (RR 1.91, 95% CI 1.26-2.87), but not veterinary surgeons. Risk was also elevated in nurses, physicians and dentists compared with the rest of the general population, the relative risk increasing following adjustments for psychiatric service contact, marital status, gross income and labour market status. Results were similar in both genders. The elevated risk in nurses and dentists decreased during the study period. Elevated risks were not associated with greater psychiatric service contact. Medicinal drugs were commonly used for suicide by nurses, physicians and pharmacists. LIMITATIONS The study was based in one country. CONCLUSIONS Risk of suicide is increased in nurses, physicians, dentists and pharmacists in Denmark. This is not reflected in excess psychiatric service contact. Ready access to medicinal drugs may influence risk in nurses, physicians and pharmacists.
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Kleespies PM, Van Orden KA, Bongar B, Bridgeman D, Bufka LF, Galper DI, Hillbrand M, Yufit RI. Psychologist suicide: Incidence, impact, and suggestions for prevention, intervention, and postvention. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 42:244-251. [PMID: 21731175 DOI: 10.1037/a0022805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Psychologist practitioners are not immune to some mental health problems, including suicidality, for which they provide services. In the aftermath of two recent psychologist suicides, the American Psychological Association's Advisory Committee on Colleague Assistance (ACCA) initiated the formation of a conjoint ad hoc committee consisting of members from ACCA, the American Psychological Association (APA) Practice Directorate, and the Section on Clinical Emergencies and Crises (Section VII of APA's Division 12) to investigate the incidence of psychologist suicide and its impact on colleagues, students or interns, patients or clients, and the profession. The committee reviewed the extant empirical literature on suicide rates for psychologists, evaluated unpublished data on psychologist suicide provided by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), interviewed colleague survivors, reviewed published case reports of the impact of therapist suicides, and linked their findings to the literature on professional distress, impairment, and self-care. The committee concluded that there is evidence suggestive of an elevated risk of suicide for psychologists in past decades. It further concluded that there is a need for further research to confirm if there is a heightened risk of suicide for psychologists in the present day, and to determine factors that might contribute to such risk. Accounts from colleague-survivors suggest that the impact of a psychologist's suicide can affect many people including family, colleagues, students, and patients or clients. This article offers suggestions for possible preventive approaches, for intervention with potentially at-risk colleagues, and for postvention efforts in the wake of a colleague suicide.
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MacFarlane E, Simpson P, Benke G, Sim MR. Suicide in Australian pesticide-exposed workers. Occup Med (Lond) 2011; 61:259-64. [DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqr031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Skegg K, Firth H, Gray A, Cox B. Suicide by occupation: does access to means increase the risk? Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2010; 44:429-34. [PMID: 20397784 DOI: 10.3109/00048670903487191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine suicide by identified occupational groups in New Zealand over a period of 30 years, focusing on groups predicted to have high suicide rates because of access to and familiarity with particular methods of suicide. METHOD Suicide data (including open verdicts) for the period 1973-2004 were examined, excluding 1996 and 1997 for which occupational data were not available. Occupational groups of interest were dentists, doctors, farmers (including farm workers), hunters and cullers, military personnel, nurses, pharmacists, police and veterinarians. Crude mortality rates were calculated based on numbers in each occupational group at each quinquennial census, 1976-2001. Standardized mortality ratios were calculated using suicide rates in all employed groups (the standard population). RESULTS Few of the occupations investigated had high risks of suicide as assessed by standardized mortality ratios, and some were at lower risk than the total employed population. Standardized mortality ratios were elevated for male nurses (1.7; 95% CI: 1.2-2.5), female nurses (1.3; 95% CI: 1.0-1.6), male hunters and cullers (3.0; 95% CI: 1.7-4.8), and female pharmacists (2.5; 95% CI: 0.8-5.9). Doctors, farmers and veterinarians were not at high risk, and men in the police and armed forces were at low risk. Access to means appeared to have influenced the method chosen. Nurses, doctors and pharmacists were more likely to use poisoning than were other employed people (3, 4 and 5 times respectively, compared with all others employed). Farmers and hunters and cullers were more than twice as likely as all others employed to use firearms. CONCLUSIONS Access to means may be less important in some circumstances than in others, perhaps because of the presence of other factors that confer protection. Nevertheless, among the groups we studied with access to lethal means were three groups whose risk of suicide has so far received little attention in New Zealand: nurses, female pharmacists, and hunters and cullers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Skegg
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand.
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Cohidon C, Santin G, Geoffroy-Perez B, Imbernon E. Suicide et activité professionnelle en France. Rev Epidemiol Sante Publique 2010; 58:139-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.respe.2010.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2009] [Revised: 11/30/2009] [Accepted: 01/05/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Burrows S, Laflamme L. Socioeconomic disparities and attempted suicide: state of knowledge and implications for research and prevention. Int J Inj Contr Saf Promot 2010; 17:23-40. [DOI: 10.1080/17457300903309231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Davidson CL, Wingate LR, Rasmussen KA, Slish ML. Hope as a predictor of interpersonal suicide risk. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2009; 39:499-507. [PMID: 19929150 DOI: 10.1521/suli.2009.39.5.499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The current study hypothesized that (1) hope would negatively predict burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and acquired capability to enact lethal injury; (2) hope would negatively predict suicidal ideation; and (3) the interpersonal suicide risk factors would predict suicidal ideation. Results indicated that hope negatively predicted burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, but positively predicted acquired capability to enact suicide. Contrary to our second hypothesis, hope did not predict suicidal ideation, but interpersonal risk factors for suicide predicted suicidal ideation. Results are discussed in terms of implications for hope theory and Joiner's (2005) interpersonal risk factors for suicide, and for clinical practice.
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Abstract
A number of occupational studies have reported high rates of suicide among selected occupations, including farmers. Limited work has focused on occupational exposures that may increase the risk of suicide. The purpose of this study is to describe suicide among individuals potentially exposed to pesticides through their occupation. Data from Colorado death certificate files for the period 1990-1999 were obtained. Eligible records were those individuals who were Colorado residents at the time of death who had an occupation listed on their death certificates. Cases had suicide listed as the primary cause of death on the death certificates. The comparison group included Colorado residents who died from any cause during the same period other than cancer, mental disorders and injuries. A total of 4,991 suicide deaths were included and a total of 107,692 other deaths served as the comparison group. Occupations considered pesticide exposed included: veterinarians; pest control occupations; farmers and farm workers; farm managers and supervisors; marine life cultivators; nursery workers; groundskeepers and gardeners; animal caretakers; graders, sorters and inspectors of agricultural products; and forestry workers, supervisors and loggers. All other occupational categories were coded as unexposed. Logistic regression was used to compare the groups, separately for males and females. After controlling for age, race, Hispanic ethnicity, years of education, and marital status, males who were in pesticide exposed occupations had higher odds of suicide (odds ratio 1.14; 95% confidence interval 0.97, 1.34) and females in pesticide exposed occupations also had higher odds of suicide (odds ratio 1.98; 95% confidence interval 1.01, 3.88).
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Nakao M, Takeuchi T, Yoshimasu K. A proposed approach to suicide prevention in Japan: the use of self-perceived symptoms as indicators of depression and suicidal ideation. Environ Health Prev Med 2008; 13:313-21. [PMID: 19568891 PMCID: PMC2698228 DOI: 10.1007/s12199-008-0048-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2008] [Accepted: 08/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of suicide in Japan has increased markedly in recent years, making suicide a major social problem. Between 1997 and 2006, the annual number of suicides increased from 24,000 to 32,000; the most dramatic increase occurred in middle-aged men, the group showing the greatest increase in depression. Recent studies have shown that prevention campaigns are effective in reducing the total number of suicides in various areas of Japan, such as Akita Prefecture. Such interventions have been targeted at relatively urban populations, and national data from public health and clinical studies are still needed. The Japanese government has established the goal of reducing the annual number of suicides to 22,000 by 2010; toward this end, several programs have been proposed, including the Mental Barrier-Free Declaration, and the Guidelines for the Management of Depression by Health Care Professionals and Public Servants. However, the number of suicides has not declined over the past 10 years. Achieving the national goal during the remaining years will require extensive and consistent campaigns dealing with the issues and problems underlying suicide, as well as simple screening methods for detecting depression. These campaigns must reach those individuals whose high-risk status goes unrecognized. In this review paper, we propose a strategy for the early detection of suicide risk by screening for depression according to self-perceived symptoms. This approach was based on the symposium Approach to the Prevention of Suicide in Clinical and Occupational Medicine held at the 78th Conference of the Japanese Society of Hygiene, 2008.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutsuhiro Nakao
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Teikyo University School of Medicine, 2-11-1, Itabashi, Tokyo, 173-8605, Japan,
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Sterud T, Hem E, Lau B, Ekeberg Ø. Suicidal Ideation and Suicide Attempts in a Nationwide Sample of Operational Norwegian Ambulance Personnel. J Occup Health 2008; 50:406-14. [DOI: 10.1539/joh.l8025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Sterud
- Department of Behavioural Sciences in MedicineInstitute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of OsloNorway
| | - Erlend Hem
- Department of Behavioural Sciences in MedicineInstitute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of OsloNorway
| | - Bj⊘rn Lau
- National Institute of Occupational HealthNorway
| | - Øivind Ekeberg
- Department of Behavioural Sciences in MedicineInstitute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of OsloNorway
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Nock MK, Borges G, Bromet EJ, Cha CB, Kessler RC, Lee S. Suicide and suicidal behavior. Epidemiol Rev 2008; 30:133-54. [PMID: 18653727 DOI: 10.1093/epirev/mxn002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1457] [Impact Index Per Article: 91.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Suicidal behavior is a leading cause of injury and death worldwide. Information about the epidemiology of such behavior is important for policy-making and prevention. The authors reviewed government data on suicide and suicidal behavior and conducted a systematic review of studies on the epidemiology of suicide published from 1997 to 2007. The authors' aims were to examine the prevalence of, trends in, and risk and protective factors for suicidal behavior in the United States and cross-nationally. The data revealed significant cross-national variability in the prevalence of suicidal behavior but consistency in age of onset, transition probabilities, and key risk factors. Suicide is more prevalent among men, whereas nonfatal suicidal behaviors are more prevalent among women and persons who are young, are unmarried, or have a psychiatric disorder. Despite an increase in the treatment of suicidal persons over the past decade, incidence rates of suicidal behavior have remained largely unchanged. Most epidemiologic research on suicidal behavior has focused on patterns and correlates of prevalence. The next generation of studies must examine synergistic effects among modifiable risk and protective factors. New studies must incorporate recent advances in survey methods and clinical assessment. Results should be used in ongoing efforts to decrease the significant loss of life caused by suicidal behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew K Nock
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, 33 Kirkland Street, Room 1280, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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Joe S, Stein DJ, Seedat S, Herman A, Williams DR. Non-fatal suicidal behavior among South Africans : results from the South Africa Stress and Health Study. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2008; 43:454-61. [PMID: 18473134 PMCID: PMC2754160 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-008-0348-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2007] [Accepted: 03/28/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suicide represents 1.8% of the global burden of disease, yet the prevalence and correlates of suicidal behavior in low income countries are unclear. This study examines the prevalence, age of onset and sociodemographic correlates of suicide ideation, planning, and attempts among South Africans. METHOD Nationally representative data are from the South Africa Stress and Health Study (SASH), a national household probability sample of 4,351 South African respondents aged 18 years and older conducted between 2002 and 2003, using the World Health Organization version of the composite international diagnostic interview (CIDI). Bivariate and survival analyses were employed to delineate patterns and correlates of nonfatal suicidal behavior. Transitions are estimated using life table analysis. Risk factors are examined using survival analysis. RESULTS The risk for attempted suicide is highest in the age group 18-34 and Coloureds had highest lifetime prevalence for attempts. Cumulative probabilities are 43% for the transition from ideation to a plan, 65% from a plan to an attempt, and 12% from ideation to an unplanned attempt. About 7.5% of unplanned and 50% of planned first attempts occur within 1 year of the onset of ideation. South Africans at higher risk for suicide attempts were younger, female, and less educated. CONCLUSIONS The burden of nonfatal suicidality in South Africa underscores the need for suicide prevention to be a national priority. Suicide prevention efforts should focus on planned attempts due to the rapid onset and unpredictability of unplanned attempts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Joe
- School of Social Work, University of Michigan, 1080 South University Ave, Room 2780, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Dan J. Stein
- Dept. of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Dept. of Psychiatry, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
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Agerbo E, Gunnell D, Bonde JP, Mortensen PB, Nordentoft M. Suicide and occupation: the impact of socio-economic, demographic and psychiatric differences. Psychol Med 2007; 37:1131-1140. [PMID: 17445281 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291707000487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To explore the risk of suicide associated with occupation while evaluating the impact of socio-economic, demographic and psychiatric differences. METHOD A nested case-control study with 3195 suicides and 63 900 matched controls. Information on causes of death, occupation, psychiatric admission, marital status and socio-economic factors was obtained from routine registers. RESULTS Across the 55 occupations investigated, the risk of suicide ranged from 2.73 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.77-4.22] among doctors to 0.44 (95% CI 0.27-0.72) among architects and engineers compared with primary school teachers. With the exception of doctors and nurses, most of the excess risk of suicide associated with particular occupations is explained by the social and economic characteristics of people in those occupations. Much, but not all, of the excess risk in doctors and nurses is due to their increased use of self-poisoning, a method for which they have the knowledge to use effectively. Occupation has little association with suicide among people who suffer from a psychiatric illness, except for doctors, where the excess risk is 3.62 (p=0.007). CONCLUSIONS Most of the considerable variation in suicide risk across occupations is explained by socio-economic factors, except for doctors and nurses. Apart from in doctors, the risk of suicide has little association with occupation among people who suffer from a psychiatric illness. Restriction of access to lethal means is an important strategy in suicide prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esben Agerbo
- National Centre for Register-based Research, University of Aarhus, Aarhus C, Denmark.
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Ostry A, Maggi S, Tansey J, Dunn J, Hershler R, Chen L, Louie AM, Hertzman C. The impact of psychosocial work conditions on attempted and completed suicide among western Canadian sawmill workers. Scand J Public Health 2007; 35:265-71. [PMID: 17530548 DOI: 10.1080/14034940601048091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Using a large cohort of western Canadian sawmill workers (n = 28,794), the association between psychosocial work conditions and attempted and completed suicide was investigated. METHODS Records of attempted and completed suicide were accessed through a provincial hospital discharge registry to identify cases that were then matched using a nested case control method. Psychosocial work conditions were estimated by expert raters using the demand-control model. Univariate and multivariate conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the association between work conditions and suicide. RESULTS In multivariate models, controlling for sociodemographic (marital status, ethnicity) and occupational confounders (job mobility and duration), low psychological demand was associated with increased odds for completed suicide, and low social support was associated with increased odds for attempted suicides. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that workers with poor psychosocial working conditions may be at increased risk of both attempted and completed suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleck Ostry
- The University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada.
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