Suicide in Depressive Disorders: a Retrospective Case-Control Study of 127 Suicides

A matched retrospective case control study was done of 127 patients with depression requiring inpatient care who died by suicide as inpatients or in the 12 months following hospital discharge. Single & multivariable conditional logistic regression identified independent risk & protective factors. A history of deliberate self-harm was a significant risk for suicide in patients with depression as was living alone & paid employment. Admission to hospital during social crisis was associated with a reduction in suicide risk. General population risk factors for suicide are less predictive of suicide in patients with depression requiring inpatient treatment. (18 refs.) JA