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A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Arizona College of Medicine—Tucson has shed light on a concerning trend: both suicide and homicide rates peak during the nighttime hours. Published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, the study analyzed data spanning 15 years from the National Violent Death Reporting System across 35 states.
The research, led by Dr. Andrew Tubbs from the Department of Psychiatry’s Sleep and Health Research Program, identified that nearly 19% of suicides and 36% of homicides occur during the night. These incidents were found to share a common risk factor: nocturnal wakefulness.
According to Dr. Tubbs, disrupted sleep patterns may impair rational thinking, potentially leading to impulsive behaviors, particularly in vulnerable individuals. The study highlighted a significant increase in risk during the early hours of the morning, with a five-fold greater risk for suicide and an eight-fold greater risk for homicide observed between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m.
“Our findings suggest that ‘the mind after midnight’ poses a distinct risk for dysregulated behaviors,” explained Dr. Michael Grandner, senior author of the study and an associate professor of psychiatry. “During this time, negative mood peaks, positive mood diminishes, and decision-making processes are compromised.”
The study further revealed that adolescents and young adults faced a particularly heightened risk, as did individuals under the influence of alcohol or experiencing relationship conflicts. Surprisingly, there was no observed increase in risk among those using cannabis or currently experiencing depression.
“Understanding these nighttime patterns is crucial for developing targeted interventions,” Dr. Tubbs emphasized. “Future research should focus on unraveling the neurological mechanisms underlying these risks and exploring strategies to improve sleep quality and reduce nighttime wakefulness.”
The study underscores the importance of addressing sleep disturbances as a potential means to mitigate the risks of suicide and homicide, particularly during the vulnerable nighttime hours.
For more information, the study titled “Risk for Suicide and Homicide Peaks at Night: Findings From the National Violent Death Reporting System, 35 States, 2003–2017” can be accessed in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.
