This study examined which defense mechanisms are associated with recent suicide attempts in depression. Defense style was rated at admission in 60 depressed inpatients with a recent suicide attempt & 96 without an attempt. Depression intensity was correlated negatively with mature style, humour, & sublimation & positively with projection. Prospective assessment of defense styles & suicide attempts should be carried out to determine whether these differences are a cause of imminent suicide attempts in depression (25 refs.)