Characteristics of Suicide Attempts Preceded by Alcohol Consumption

The prevalence of recent alcohol intake among suicide attempts was assessed & suicide attempts preceded or not by alcohol intake were compared. 160 patients examined in the emergency service of a French general hospital after a suicide attempt were included. Prevalence of alcohol consumption was 40%. Patients who had consumed alcohol before their attempt were significantly older. Alcohol abuse was more frequent among suicide attempters with prior alcohol ingestion as was alcohol dependence. Suicide attempters should be asked about recent alcohol intake as it is often a symptom of alcohol abuse or dependence disorder. (18 refs.)