INVESTIGATING ONSET, CESSATION, RELAPSE, AND RECOVERY - WHY YOU SHOULD, AND HOW YOU CAN, USE DISCRETE-TIME SURVIVAL ANALYSIS TO EXAMINE EVENT OCCURRENCE

In this article, we show how discrete-time survival analysis can addre ss questions about onset, cessation, relapse, and recovery. Using data on the onset of suicide ideation and depression and relapse into coca ine use, we introduce key concepts underpinning the method, describe t he action of the discrete-time hazard model, and discuss several types of main effects and interactions that can be included as predictors. We also comment on practical issues of data analysis and strategies fo r interpretation and presentation.