Suicide Among Cardiovascular Patients (IN: The Psychology of Suicide, ed. by E S Shneidman et al)

45 patients with respiratory & cardiac disease who committed suicide while in veterans’ hospitals & 45 matched controls were studied. A number of personality & behaviour items significantly differentiated between the groups. In general, the suicides seemed more emotionally disturbed, had poorer relationships with hospital staff & family & were seen as problem patients. One major behaviour pattern that emerged was that of dependence-dissatisfaction. A number of prevention suggestions are offered.