Examining the role of psychological factors in the relationship between sleep problems and suicide

Abstract

We sought to conduct the first systematic review of empirical evidence investigating the role of psychological factors in the relationship between sleep problems and suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Twelve studies were identified which examined psychological factors grouped into four categories of cognitive appraisals, psychosocial factors, emotion regulation strategies, and risk behaviours. Although there was substantial heterogeneity across studies with respect to measurement, sampling, and analysis, preliminary evidence indicated that negative cognitive appraisals, perceived social isolation, and unhelpful emotion regulation strategies may contribute to the association between sleep problems and suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Given that findings in this area are currently restricted to studies with cross-sectional designs, the directionality of the interrelationships between these psychological factors, sleep problems and suicidality, remains unclear. We integrate the findings of our review with contemporary psychological models of suicidal behaviour to develop a clear research agenda. Identified pathways should now be tested with longitudinal and experimental designs. In addition, a more thorough investigation of the complexities of sleep, psychological factors, and suicidal thoughts and behaviours is crucial for the development of targeted psychological interventions.

The relationship between entrapment and suicidal behavior through the lens of the integrated motivational–volitional model of suicidal behavior

“…There has been growing interest in the relationship between different types of sleep problems and self-harm and suicide risk, with entrapment posited as a potential explanatory mechanism [41][42][43][44]. In one recent study, Littlewood and colleagues investigated whether they could explain why nightmares were associated with suicidal behavior [43].…”

Insomnia and Nightmares as Markers of Risk for Suicidal Ideation in Young People: Investigating the Role of Defeat and Entrapment

“…However, investigations of this nature within adolescent samples are particularly limited. A recent systematic review 24 highlighted only one study that had examined potential psychological mediators of the sleep-suicide relationship in this age group. 25 That is, it remains unclear why sleep problems are associated with increased suicidal risk within this unique 26 developmental period.…”

Sleep, Nightmares and Schizophrenia

“…Nightmares are thought to lead to suicidal thoughts via perceptions of defeat, entrapment, hopelessness [95,96].…”