Suicidal Ideation and Suicide Attempts in Homeless Mentally ill Persons: Age-specific Risks of Substance Abuse

Data from a multi-site outreach program were used to investigate whether rates of serious suicidal ideation & recent suicide attempts varied with the age & substance abuse diagnoses among homeless mentally ill clients. The prevalence of 30-day suicidal ideation & suicide attempts was found to be extremely high. Young to middle aged clients were at greatest risk of suicidal behavior, but among older clients the presence of both drug & alcohol abuse significantly increased suicide risk. These & further findings are discussed. (46 refs)