The author found that in a study of 50 selected patients, there was an overwhelming presence of 7 characteristics of addiction as they apply directly to suicide, suggesting an addiction to suicidal fantasies & behaviours. Possible predisposition, neurochemistry, & progression of the illness are discussed. The author posits that mood alteration is the critical element that distinguishes suicide addiction from other patterns of suicidality & from a compulsion. Implications for identification & treatment are discussed. (41 refs)