The Subjective Consequences of Suffering a First Episode Psychosis: Trauma and Suicide Behaviour

35 patients suffering their first episode of psychosis were interviewed. 77% indicated they had suffered loss or disruption to their life. Suicide ideation was reported by 40% & 31% reported attempting suicide. Suicidal behaviour was greater in those suffering symptomatic posttraumatic stress disorder but this was not significant. Suicidal behaviour was significantly associated with the experience of trauma, but not the severity of the trauma, prior to the onset of their psychosis. (29 refs.)