Schizophrenia carries an estimated suicide risk of 4-5%. Many factors are involved in the suicidal process, some of which are different from those in the general population. Clinical risk factors include attempted suicide, depression, male gender, substance abuse, & hopelessness. Biosocial factors, such as a high intelligence quotient & high level of premorbid function, have also been associated with an increased risk of suicide in patients with schizophrenia. Suicide risk is especially high during the first year after diagnosis. Many suicides occur during hospital admission or soon after discharge. Management includes both medical treatment & psychosocial interventions. More research is needed. (149 refs.) JA