CANADA: Major Traumatic Injury Increases Risk of Mental Health Diagnoses, Suicide

Medical Xpress

People who experience major injury are at increased risk for subsequent mental illness and suicide, according to a recent study in Canada. Researchers examined data on more than 19,000 patients in Ontario admitted to the hospital after a traumatic injury from an event such as a car accident or fall. They found that serious injury was associated with an increased risk of developing a mental health condition and dying by suicide in the years afterward. The most common mental health diagnoses were alcohol and other substance use disorders, and major depressive disorders. The authors recommended that mental health supports be provided to all people who experience traumatic injuries, especially vulnerable groups, such as young people.

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