Suicidal behavior in schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder

Individuals with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder are at increased risk for completed suicide and suicide attempts. Suicide risk is increased throughout the life span and most suicide attempters and completers make more than one attempt. Investigations show that individuals with these psychotic disorders are typically experiencing psychotic symptoms and in psychiatric treatment at the time of their attempts although frequently under-treated with respect to medication. We review the literature with regard to demographic and clinical risk factors for suicidal behavior among, individuals with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. Specifically the role of clinical symptoms, premorbid and current social functioning, depression, substance misuse and abuse and biological factors are presented, Future directions for research regarding assessment and intervention are discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.