[Romantic Attachment and Post Breakup Depression Symptoms and Suicidal Behaviour]

Objectives This study investigated the associations among romantic attachment insecurities (anxiety, avoidance) and depressive symptoms and suicidal behaviour (suicidal ideas, suicide attempts) following a romantic breakup. The moderating role of gender in these associations was also examined.Methods A sample of 50 French-Canadian adults who experienced a breakup in the last six months were recruited through publicity in the community and help centers (e.g., suicidal prevention centers, community crisis centers). A doctoral student verbally administered validated measures of romantic attachment (Lafontaine et al., 2016), depressive symptoms (Beck, Steer & Brown, 1996), and suicidal behaviours (Posner et al., 2009).Results Results from hierarchical regression analyses revealed that attachment-related anxiety - but not avoidance - was significantly related to higher levels of post breakup depressive symptoms and suicidal ideas (severity and intensity), even after controlling for attachment-related avoidance and social support. Gender did not moderate theses associations.Conclusion This study highlights the importance of attachment theory to understand post break-up adjustment. The findings emphasize the preponderant role of attachment-related anxiety in the development of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideas, which should be assessed when adult patients seek help after a break-up. Limitations of the study and future research are discussed.