Examining suicide risk in individuals with autism spectrum disorder via the interpersonal theory of suicide: clinical insights and recommendations

ABSTRACT

Suicide-related behaviors are over-represented among youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A more thorough understanding of the connections between ASD and suicide-related behaviors may help to identify potential avenues for prevention efforts and can inform clinical care for youth with ASD. This manuscript presents a conceptualization of suicide risk among youth with ASD based on the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, in order to spur discussion and future research. This manuscript also provides preliminary clinical recommendations for improving suicide prevention efforts among youth with ASD based on hypothesized risk and protective factors.

Acknowledgments

We want to thank Dr. Robert Voigt, MD for reviewing our article and providing his expertise in the field of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics and autism spectrum disorder.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest.