Patients experiencing a major depressive episode make up the largest proportion of patients who have attempted suicide. Research has shown that the risk of suicide in people with depressive disorders is 20 times higher than in the general population. These figures show how important treatment and follow-up are for suicidal behaviour and depression, its most common underlying cause, and that suicide is a preventable public health crisis.
Can suicide be predicted?
There is no objective measurement method or test that allows us to predict suicidal behaviour. Research on suicide aims to identify the individual, environmental, psychological and other factors that lead a person to this point, so that a thorough assessment and appropriate treatment can be provided.
Does asking someone about suicidal thoughts put the idea of suicide into their mind?
No, asking someone whether they have suicidal thoughts does not give them the intention to take their own life. Studies provide evidence that being able to ask about suicide is very important and that asking does not trigger suicide and may, in fact, be helpful.
How can we assess suicide risk in someone with depression?
Almost all patients who have attempted suicide have a diagnosed mental disorder. Depression accounts for approximately 80% of these cases. The risk of suicide in people with depressive disorders has been shown to be 20 times higher than in the general population.
As mentioned earlier, despite extensive research on suicide, it is not possible to predict it. However, it is possible to identify risks, take precautions and plan treatment.
Can suicide be prevented?
Suicide is a significant cause of preventable death. In clinical practice, interviews and self-report scales completed by the individual are used to assess suicide risk. However, the most important steps in assessing suicide risk are to recognise that each individual is different, provide regular follow-up and work collaboratively with the patient in treatment.
Research emphasises the importance of assessing the individual's suicidal tendencies, coexisting mental and physical illnesses, psychological characteristics, family factors, access to means of suicide, social relationships, stressors, alcohol and substance use disorders, and changes in behaviour when evaluating suicide risk. It is very important that physicians have specialist expertise in this field and sufficient experience to manage the process.
