Clinical factors affecting suicidal behaviours in selected mental disorders

Suicidal behaviours associated with mental disorders have been the subject of investigation for many years. Suicide is a serious social and medical problem. The World Health Organization estimates that it is the third most common cause of death in people aged 15-44. Suicide is a complex process influenced by multiple factors, both interconnected and independent from one another. This paper discusses clinical factors that can occur in certain mental disorders, usually identified with suicidal behaviours. Mental disorders that cause a high suicidal risk include: depression, personality disorders, alcohol addiction and paranoid schizophrenia. The search for the factors conductive to suicidal decisions in patients with these disorders is highly significant. The studies and observations of patients at risk of suicide indicate certain common characteristic signs and behaviours, irrespective of the mental disorder. In light of the studies conducted, it is believed that the following factors have a significant influence on suicidal behaviours in patients with the above-mentioned mental disorders: history of suicide attempts, impulsiveness and aggression, persistent insomnia, chronic depression and sub-depression as well as psychotic symptoms (persecutory and/or depressive delusions, imperative hallucinations). The risk of suicide can be reduced considerably by skilful diagnostic management and appropriate assessment of clinical factors.