Relationship Between Quantity and Frequency of Alchohol use and Indices of Suicidal Behavior in an Elderly Australian Sample

Relatively little research has been conducted on the relationship between alcohol misuse & suicidal behaviour among the elderly. This study examined whether quantity & frequency of alcohol use & the interaction between these variables are related to current suicide ideation, previous suicide ideation/intent, & past suicide attempts in a community sample of 1010 Australian adults over age 60. Results partially supported the hypothesis. The interaction between quantity & frequency of alcohol use was significant, suggesting those who use alcohol less frequently but in greater quantities are more likely to have a history of suicide attempts. (41 refs.)