This study sought to determine the major risk factors for suicide in rural south India. A matched case-control design & psychological autopsy were used to assess 100 consecutive suicides & 100 living controls. 37 percent of those who died by suicide had a DSM-III-R psychiatric diagnosis. Alcohol dependence & adjustment disorders were the most common diagnoses. Ongoing stress & chronic pain heightened the risk of suicide. Living alone & a break in a steady relationship within the past year were also significantly associated with suicide. Psychosocial stress & social isolation, rather than psychiatric morbidity, are risk factors for suicide in rural south India. (36 refs.) JA
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