The author discusses alcoholism as a contributor to about 25% of the total of suicides in the U.S. Recent interpersonal loss is suggested as a predictor of suicide in alcoholics & other losses may also be a factor. Successful treatment of alcoholism is said to be a substantive preventive measure, & the physician should be aware that impending or recent major disruptions in the alcoholic’s life should be a signal for increased emotional & environmental support. 11 Refs. (LH)