Risk Factors for Suicide in Patients With Schizophrenia: Nested Case-Control Study

Of 9156 patients admitted to psychiatric hospitals in Denmark between 1970-1987 & diagnosed for the first time as having schizophrenia, 508 committed suicide. These individuals were matched to 10 controls from the same cohort & data were analyzed using conditional logistic regression. Suicide risk was particularly high in the first 5 days after discharge. Closer monitoring & better social support may be needed during this period & for patients on temporary leave from the hospital. (28 refs.)