Some Psychodynamic Aspects of the Presuicidal Syndrome with Special Reference to Older Persons

Ringel’s presuicidal syndrome involves increasing restraint, repressed aggression directed against one’s own person & increasing suicidal fantasies. The author examines various aspects of the psychopathology of this syndrome. Suicidal fantasies are likened to sedative drugs, subject to excesses. The problem of maintaining self-esteem in an already depressed person is discussed. High risk groups, social isolation, ambivalence, & the identification of potential suicides are examined.