Depression, Hopelessness, and Suicidal Behavior in Chinese and American Psychiatric Patients

A study of matched groups of psychiatric patients from the U.S. & China who were having difficulty with suicidal thinking or behavior found differences due to social views & availability of medical care. Both groups reported high levels of depression & hopelessness, & fewer reasons for living. Chinese patients were less likely to communicate suicidal intent & rated suicide as less effective at solving problems. (16 ref)