Course and Predictors of Suicidality Over the First two Years of Treatment in First-Episode Schizophrenia Spectrum Psychosis

This study investigated the course of suicidal behaviour over the first 2 years of comprehensive, integrated treatment in 2 groups of patients with DSM-IV first episode schizophrenia spectrum psychosis, where 1 group was recruited through an early detection program. It has been shown previously that the rate of severe suicidal behaviour was lower in the earlier detected group. First episode schizophrenia is a high risk period for suicidality but low rates of suicide & suicide attempts were found in both groups after 2 years in treatment with no between group differences. Severe suicidality was predicted by drug abuse, dissatisfaction with life, & severe suicidality at start of treatment. (40 refs.) JA