The relationship between childhood abuse and suicidal behaviours in a treatment-seeking sample of Canadian military, police, and Veterans

Abstract

LAY SUMMARY Suicide and related behaviours (e.g., attempting suicide, planning suicide, and purposely harming oneself) can negatively impact individuals, families, and communities. Canadian military and police are generally more likely to engage in suicide-related behaviours than the general population. This study looked at how often suicide-related behaviours occur and whether experiences of childhood abuse increase the likelihood of such behaviours among actively serving and Veteran Canadian military and police personnel who are seeking mental health treatment. Data were drawn from the medical charts of 412 individuals at a clinic that specializes in serving members and Veterans of the Canadian military and police services with mental health needs. Approximately 41% of the sample had engaged in one or more suicide-related behaviour. By type of behaviour, 37% had thought about suicide, 11% had attempted suicide, 7% had a suicide plan, and 5% engaged in self-harm behaviours. Those with a history of childhood abuse and those who identified as Veterans were more likely to have attempted suicide. These findings may help inform efforts to reduce suicide and related behaviours in this unique group.