Factors Influencing the Development and Amelioration of Suicidal Thoughts in the General Population

An 18-month follow-up survey investigated 2404 of the adults who took part in the second National Psychiatric Morbidity Survey to determine the factors associated with the development of, & recover from, suicidal thoughts. The annual incidence of suicidal thoughts was 2.3%. Incidence was highest in women & among 16 to 24 year olds. Increased incidence was associated with not being in a stable relationship, low levels of social support, & being unemployed. 57% of those with suicidal thoughts at baseline had recovered by the 18-month follow up interview. (LC) (36 refs)