Reading problems are linked to risk of suicide

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

Poor reading is a risk factor for suicide and dropping out of school, according to a new report.
Suicide is an issue in all age groups and researchers are trying to learn more about the risk factors. In a new study, a team at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center report upon the influence of reading ability on suicide risk.

They screened a group of over 1,000 students and, from those who wanted to participate, studied a group of poor readers and average readers. Those with poor reading skills proved to be more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and attempts as well as school dropout. Further analysis showed that reading problems were a risk factor for suicidal behavior, regardless of whether there was a history of psychiatric problems, such as depression.

The same researchers have also noted that students with reading problems followed over 25 years tended to have a higher rate of suicide. The findings suggest that those dealing with children, or others, with reading problems should be on the lookout for suicidal behavior.

Source
Journal of Learning Disabilities November 2006

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