Attempted suicide and suicide in functional psychoses.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Functional psychosis is a significant mental health concern.
• Suicide attempts are a critical outcome in psychiatric populations.
• Understanding risk factors for suicide in psychosis is crucial for prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between attempted suicide and psychotic symptoms.
• To identify specific risk factors for suicide attempts and completion in functional psychosis.
• To examine gender differences in suicide attempt methods and intentions.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 2,243 first admissions for functional psychosis (1938-1961) at Gaustad Hospital was studied.
• Patients were followed for 5 years post-discharge or until death.
• Data included prior suicide attempts, methods, intentions, and subsequent suicide completion.

Main Results:

• 325 patients had a history of suicide attempts prior to admission, with equal frequency in both sexes.
• Men exhibited more dangerous methods and serious intentions in suicide attempts.
• The risk of suicide attempts was highest in patients with depressive psychosis.
• 28 patients died by suicide within 5 years of discharge, and 20 prior to reexamination.

Conclusions:

• A significant connection exists between attempted suicide and psychotic symptoms.
• Depressive psychosis is a key indicator for increased suicide risk.
• Psychosis influences the decision to attempt suicide, but not necessarily the method.