Suicide Behaviors

Suicide is a potentially preventable cause of death.

In our research program, psychiatric participants are assessed in regards to their history of suicidal behaviors and ideation. We are studying the association between suicidal behaviors and serological markers, as well as dietary exposures.

We also have a study, funded by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, in which we are assessing persons with major depressive disorder when they are in the hospital and following them for six months during the critical period after hospital discharge. We are looking at serological markers related to the gut brain axis as predictors of suicidal behaviors and ideation.

In addition, we are collaborating with the Mental Health Department of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to better understand suicide mortality outcomes in the mid-Atlantic region.