Mixed-Effects Models for Analyzing Intensive Longitudinal Data on Suicidal Ideation in PTSD

Music City Center 

Suicidal ideation is a pressing mental health concern, particularly among individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Early detection and timely intervention are critical yet challenging in psychiatric care. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) via mobile devices (e.g., smartphones, wearables) provides a novel approach for continuous monitoring of psychological, behavioral, and contextual biomarkers associated with suicide risk. However, the intensive longitudinal nature of EMA data presents statistical challenges alongside opportunities for new medical insights. This study utilized generalized linear mixed-effects models to explore the relationship between coping plan use frequency and suicidal ideation, addressing both within-person and between-person variability. Significant associations were observed at both levels, with moderation analyses revealing that the relationship varied by coping strategy (CRP versus SP).

Our findings highlight the statistical complexities of EMA data and the value of tailored modeling approaches in capturing the dynamic interplay between coping behaviors and suicide risk, offering critical insights for clinical intervention.

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA)

mHealth (Mobile Health)

Generalized linear mixed-effects models (GLMM)

Suicidal ideation

Intensive longitudinal data 

Mental Health Statistics Section