Family environment and suicidal ideation among bipolar youth.

The objective of this study was to examine the association between family environment and suicidal ideation among youth with bipolar disorder. Subjects included 446 bipolar (BP) youth (age 7-17) enrolled in the Course and Outcome of Bipolar Youth study. Current suicidal ideation, family functioning and family stress were assessed at intake. BP youth with current suicidal ideation reported more conflict with their mother and less family adaptability. Ideators endorsed more stressful family events over the prior year and higher rates of specific familial stressors. Clinicians treating bipolar youth should consider family stress when conducting suicide risk assessment. Treatment goals may include enhancing family communication and addressing issues of loss.