Suicide in schizophrenic patients
Roos, J.L.; Boraine, H.; Bodemer, W.
South African Medical Journal 81(7): 365-369
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 1561561 Document Number: 402308
Suicide is a serious and extensive problem in the clinical management of schizophrenic patients. A retrospective empirical study was conducted on 33 white schizophrenic patients who committed suicide between 1978 and 1989. 'Psychological autopsy' and psychiatric interviews were used for gathering information. A group of 33 schizophrenic patients with a high suicide risk were used as control group. The two groups were correlated as far as possible with regard to age, duration of illness and sex. A statistical analysis was made of the findings. Risk factors revealed by this study, which may be of use in the clinical situation to help prevent suicide in schizophrenic patients, are discussed and include sociodemographic data, depressive and psychotic symptomatology and the misuse of Cannabis. Suggestions are also made regarding future research on schizophrenia and suicide. It is concluded that the clinician should be conservative in his assumptions when identifying schizophrenic patients with a high risk of suicide and should not overestimate his abilities in this field.