Considering the Role of the Menstrual Cycle on Increased Suicidality in Adolescent Females

Increased suicide in adolescent females calls for further study of potential risk and resiliency factors. Considering the relationship that menstrual cycle plays on mood and increased likelihood of suicidality in adult women, it is likely that a similar relationship is present in adolescents. The current review used PubMed and PsycInfo to assess articles related to menstrual cycle and suicide in adolescents. Limited data was present on the role that menstrual cycle and related disorders such as PMS and PMDD has on the worsening of mood symptoms and suicidal ideation and attempts, with minimal research conducted on adolescents. This review identifies a gap in research regarding premenstrual distress as a potential risk factor for suicidal ideation and attempts in adolescents. The present review suggests future routes for research in this area and the impacts that a better understanding of the complex relationship between menstrual cycle and suicide could provide in order to minimize the impact of menstrual distress on suicidality.