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Psychosurgery

Psychosurgery

Psychosurgery, the surgical alteration or permanent removal of brain tissue to alleviate severe psychological conditions, stands as one of the most radical and controversial treatments in the history of mental health care. Its development and application have evolved significantly, marked by dramatic shifts in scientific understanding and ethical perspectives.
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Suicide pact by mutual simultaneous arm amputation.

Ann C Schwartz¹, Joshua S Spitalnick, Dion K Short

¹Grady Memorial Hospital, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA. aschwa2@emory.edu

|December 10, 2009

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Two HIV-positive men in a suicide pact survived a high-lethality attempt due to intense depression, hopelessness, and social isolation. Their case highlights the dependency in dyadic suicide pacts.

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Area of Science:

Psychiatry
Psychology
Sociology

Background:

Dyadic suicide pacts are rare, comprising less than 1% of completed suicides.
This case examines two men in a long-term domestic partnership who formed a suicide pact.

Observation:

The individuals attempted a high-lethality suicide method (simultaneous arm amputation) but survived.
Both men were HIV-positive and exhibited severe depression, hopelessness, social isolation, and financial difficulties.

Findings:

Investigated psychiatric, psychological, and social factors contributing to the suicide pact.
Utilized psychiatric interviews and family conference calls to understand the participants' history and suicidal intent.
One patient was discharged to family support, while the other required hospitalization.

Implications:

This case illustrates key features of attempted suicide pacts.
Highlights the complex dependency dynamics within such relationships.
Underscores the importance of psychiatric support and family involvement in managing high-risk individuals.