Study Examines Suicide Ideation and Behaviors of Preadolescents

Principal investigator Dr. Helene Jackson, coinvestigator Dr. Peg Hess (both CUSSW faculty), and clinical investigator Dr. Annaclare van Dalen (supervisor, JBFCS) expect this study to identify specific risk and protective factors associated with preadolescent suicide activity Among the variables hypothesized to place preadolescents at high risk for suicide are childhood traumas and family and environmental
stress.
Among factors expected to be associated with lower risk for preadolescent suicide are positive child attributes and social and family support.

Implementation of this project will ensure early identification of the potential for suicide. Study results will have important implications for developing prevention and remedial interventions for this at-risk population. Based on study findings, Drs. Jackson and Hess plan to submit a proposal to NIMH for a study of a larger sample of preadolescents drawn from a more heterogeneous population.

Study Seeks to Overcome Barriers to Mental Health Services for Older Adults

Prevalence rates of mental health problems among older adults range from 13_h to 25%. Yet barriers to treatment are numerous. This study seeks to examine the role of these barriers in mental health services utilization; and test whether providing services in normative settings (senior centers, nutrition sites and congregate housing programs) as compared to traditional mental health clinics could improve mental

health outcomes. The project would generate comparative data to refine a model of mental health service delivery in order to improve access for older adults, family members and aging-service and health care providers. Principal investigator Dr. Denise Burnette (CUSSW faculty) is collaborating with the JBFCS Division of Mental Health Services to Older Adults.