Electroencephalographic Correlates of Suicidal Ideation in the Theta Band

Abstract

Previous studies have indicated that the abnormalities of brain activity are associated with suicidal behavior. However, few studies have explored neurophysiologic biomarkers of suicidal ideation (SI) in healthy subjects. Here, we studied alterations of theta quantitative EEG (QEEG) in frontal regions associated with SI in young healthy subjects. Resting QEEG data were recorded from 90 young healthy subjects. The subjects were divided into two group based on Scale for Suicidal Ideation (SSI) scores: a high SSI group (n = 33) and a low SSI group (n = 57). Individual frontal electrodes (Fp1, Fp2, F7, F3, Fz, F4, F8) and central midline electrodes (FCz, Cz) were examined for absolute and relative power in the theta band. Clinical state and social support was assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Functional Social Support Questionnaire. We found that theta absolute and relative power in all channels was positively correlated with SSI, except Fp1, F7 and F8. The high SSI group showed higher theta relative power at F3, Fz, FCz, and Cz than the low SSI group. Theta relative power in the fronto-central region was significantly increased in the high SSI group compared to that in the low SSI group. Hierarchical regression analysis showed that SSI score was the most powerful predictor of fronto-central theta power. The findings suggest that brain electrical activity at the fronto-central region may be associated with differences in SI in young healthy subjects. EEG activity in theta band has clinical potential as a biomarker for preventing suicide.

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