Suicide in Alcohol-Dependent Individuals: Epidemiology and Management

This article reviews what the authors deem to be the essential epidemiological & clinical research in the areas of alcohol dependence & suicidal behaviour. On the basis of current data & clinical experience, they suggest the following principles for the management of alcohol-dependent individuals: suicidal threats or communications in emergency & other contacts be taken seriously; other mental disorders be evaluated with a consequent treatment & follow-up plan initiated; appropriate & up-to-date pharmacological treatment should focus on reducing the amount of drinking & treating symptoms of other mental disorders, & known epidemiological & clinical risk factors, adverse life events in particular, should be recognized & taken into account. (140 refs.) JA