The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for suicide in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Sociodemographic data, age of onset, the course of the disease, recent deterioration, type of deterioration, DSS score, previous mental disorder, type of mental disorder, previous suicide attempts, expression of suicidal intentions, circumstances at suicide, & suicide method for all MS patients with onset in the period 1950-1985 who had committed suicide were reviewed. The results & their implications for future prevention initiatives are discussed. (20 refs)