This paper discusses psychodynamic perspectives of the conceptualization & treatment of suicidal patients. A review of psychoanalytic & psychodynamic perspectives is provided, along with representative case examples of these phenomena. Empirical studies are also reviewed, noting how recent research provides some meaningful insight into the object relations of suicidal patients. Finally, treatment issues are discussed. It is concluded that a psychodynamic model is of value when treating patients with suicidal ideation & impulses. (40 refs)