[Suicidal risk in endogenous, neurotic and reactive depression in advanced age]

Suicidal syndromes were analyzed in 339 patients older than 45 years. Psychiatric treatment was instituted because of endogenous, neurotic or reactive depression. Differences in the relationship between diagnosis, sex and two age groups are discussed. Violent suicide increases with age concomitantly in all forms of depression. The prevalence of suicide after the age of 45 points toward the significance of particular life events and social influences. Life events and psychodynamic leading to suicidal behaviour are discussed Characteristic arrays of symptoms correlating with suicidal behaviour in endogenous depression are outlined. Special problems in the management of suicidal behaviour in the elderly are discussed.