[The suicidal patient. Incidence, special suicidal syndromes, therapeutic possibilities and problems]

Suicide is not only the subjects of psychiatric, psychological and sociological examination, but has often induced basic philosophical, theological and juridical thoughts which are a challenge to a critical reflection. Most suicides go in hand with psychological disturbances and psychiatric illnesses. The majority of patients who tried to commit suicide don't stick to their intention. The treatment of these patients is a very important task for doctors. Certain groups in risk of committing suicide call for attention. Special suicidal syndromes often appear with young and old persons, patients with chronic and uncurable diseases, alcohol- and drug-addicts, as well as patients with psychosis. The structure and intention of the suicidal action as well as psychodynamic aspects, especially the extent of the "presuicidal syndrome" (Ringel) and the instability of their self-confidence give essential hints regarding further therapeutical treatment. Because of the increase of suicidal actions especially of trials of committing suicide, the difficulty of a systematic description and the complex reasons for suicide it is necessary to promote the cooperation between the different disciplines and intensity prophylactic measures.