Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Depression, and Suicidality in Young Children Admitted to a Psychiatric Hospital

Abstract

Abstract Despite the rapid increase in suicide rates among children, limited data exists regarding the prevalence and correlates of suicidality specifically in preadolescent children. The current study examines the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), depression, and suicidality among a child population receiving inpatient psychiatric treatment. Scores on the Center for Youth Wellness Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire for Children (ACE-Q) and Childhood Depression Inventory, Second Edition (CDI-2), and patients with suicidal ideation (SI) or suicide attempts (SA) contributing to their inpatient admission were analyzed to explore potential associations in a sample of 153 children. Results indicated both admission SI and admission SA were linked to suicidality endorsed on the CDI-2 (item 8). Depressive symptoms measured by the CDI-2 were positively linked to specific ACEs. Children with SI and SA at the time of admission showed statistically higher scores on the CDI-2. Having experienced four or more ACEs was marginally associated with admission SA; however, there was no association between admission SI and having experienced four or more ACEs. Specific ACEs were positively correlated with admission SI and admission SA. There was no link found between total ACEs score and admission SI, yet there was a marginal association between admission SA and total ACEs score. Lastly, item 8 on the CDI-2 predicted SI and SA on admission while ACEs total did not predict either. Specific ACES were identified as predictive of both SI and SA on admission.