Suicidal risk in depressive patients

Abstract

Introduction The purpose of this study was to examine the suicidal risk in regard to suicidal thoughts, ideas and attempts among delusional and non-delusional depressed patients. Material and methods 35 non-delusional and 30 delusional depressed patients were examined. All patients were hospitalized at the Psychiatric Clinic in Novi Sad, between 1995-2001. In regard to statistical methods t-test and multivariate discriminate analysis were used. Results Delusional depressives were older. They presented greater scores both on Hamilton Depressive Rating Scale and Beck Scale of Suicidal Thoughts. They were also at greater suicidal risk measured by Suicidal Risk Scale (M.Biro). However, delusional depressive patients plan suicide more carefully than non-delusional. Discussion and conclusion Patients with self-accusing ideas commit suicide most frequently. Delusional depressive patients were at higher suicidal risk; their suicidal thoughts were more intensive than in non-delusional patients; similar results were found in other articles as well.