Impulsive Suicide Attempts Predict Post-Treatment Relapse in Alcohol-Dependent Patients

This study examined the influence of suicidality on relapse in alcohol-dependent patients. The unique contribution of impulsive suicide attempts was also examined. A total of 154 Polish inpatients with alcohol dependence were studied; 118 completed a standardized follow-up assessment at 12 months. 42% of patients reported a lifetime suicide attempt. More than 62% of these patients reported making an impulsive attempt. Lifetime suicide attempts were not associated with post-treatment relapse. However, impulsive attempts strongly predicted relapse & time to relapse even after adjusting for baseline psychopathology, depression, impulsivity, hopelessness, & alcohol use severity. (71 refs.)