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Characteristics Of Suicidal Behavior In People With Schizophrenia

Stella Markova-Boneva

Abstract

Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) collects mortality data, including the prevalence and causes of suicide, for all member states. In early 2013, after declaring rising suicide rates a "global public health crisis," they advocated for evidence-based strategies to prevent suicide worldwide. The lifetime suicide rate for people with schizophrenia is approximately 10%. Suicide is the biggest factor in reducing life expectancy for these people. The only reliable protective factor for suicide in patients with schizophrenia is the provision and adherence to comprehensive treatment. Prevention of suicidal behavior in schizophrenia should include identifying at-risk patients as well as providing the best possible therapy and care. Suicide and suicide attempts are significantly more common in schizophrenia than in the general population. General estimates are that a relatively large percentage of people with schizophrenia will eventually complete suicide, and that attempts are made two to five times more often.

The purpose of this report is to investigate and provide a worldwide overview of suicidal behavior in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Materials and methods: In the present report, scientific publications reflecting the characteristics of suicide attempts in patients with schizophrenia were reviewed and analyzed. Documentary and analytical method were used.

Conclusions: After the research of the scientific literature, the following conclusions can be made:

  • Assessment of risk factors for suicidal behavior should be constant in the treatment of persons with schizophrenia;
  • Changes in symptoms, behavior and life circumstances, as well as increased substance abuse, should be carefully assessed;
  • In summary, the only reliable protective factor for suicide in patients with schizophrenia is the provision and adherence to comprehensive treatment. Prevention of suicidal behavior in schizophrenia should include identifying at-risk patients as well as providing the best possible therapy targeting psychotic symptoms.

Keywords

schizophrenia, suicide, autoaggression, self-harm, risk factors

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