Classifying suicide risk in patients with mood disorders

Suicide is a substantial global cause of mortality and disability. Although risk factors for suicide are well-established, the classification of high-risk groups based on these factors remains challenging. This study aimed to identify the optimal classification for high-risk suicide groups with risk factors for suicide.

We analyzed the medical records of 524 patients diagnosed with mood disorders at Asan Medical Center from February 2022 to August 2023 using decision tree analysis.

Among 27 potential predictor variables, perceived burdensomeness was found to be the most important factor for classifying suicide risk. The optimal classification node for the high-risk suicide group included high perceived burdensomeness, high thwarted belongingness, low depressive symptoms, and low fear of death.

These findings suggest that enhancing interpersonal resources may be beneficial for high-risk suicide intervention. Additionally, low depressive symptoms may indicate suicide risk, particularly when associated with high perceived burdensomeness, high thwarted belongingness, and low fear of death.