Aspects of the Suicidal Career in Severe Depression: a Comparison Between Attempts in Suicides and Controls

Suicide attempts in the long term course of illness were investigated in 89 suicides with a primary severe depression/melancholia & in matched controls. Suicide attempts were found to be more common among those who eventually completed suicide than among controls. As well, re-attempts among completers, only, were related to number of episodes of mood disorder. Controls more often made re-attempts after a stressful life event. Gender differences are also discussed. (39 refs)