Citation

Hong V, Busby DR, O'Chel S, King CA. J. Am. Coll. Health 2020; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/07448481.2020.1764004

PMID

32529919

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Given increases in mental health utilization among college and university students, this study examines clinical and socio-demographic characteristics in students presenting to psychiatric emergency services. Participants: University students (N = 725; Mage = 22 years, SD = 4.0; 67% White) visiting psychiatric emergency services at a large academic health system between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2016.

METHODS: A retrospective review of students' electronic medical records, which included responses to the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale, was conducted.

RESULTS: Levels of suicide risk varied by students' self-identified race. Nonwhite students were more likely to endorse a suicide attempt in the past week and less likely to be taking psychiatric medications than White students. International students were more likely to report a lifetime history of multiple attempts.

CONCLUSIONS: Disparities related to college student psychiatric emergencies warrant specific attention to specific racial/ethnic groups and international students to reduce and manage mental health crises.

Language: en

Keywords

emergency department; suicide; College mental health; international students; mental health disparities