Citation

Prieto D, Tavares M. J. Bras. Psiquiatr. 2005; 54(2): 146-154.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, Instituto De Psiquiatria)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Suicide ranks third amongst the most frequent causes of death in the population aged 14 to 44 in some countries. It is estimated that suicide attempts are 20 times more frequent than completed suicides. Men commit suicide more frequently, while women present higher incidence of attempts. Mental disorders are associated in about 90% of the cases, with the most common being: mood and personality disorders, drug addiction and schizophrenia. Histories of physical and sexual violence, negligence, rejection and grief are stressful factors often associated with suicide. The most common triggering events of a suicidal behavior are the existence of serious relational conflicts and significant interpersonal losses. The decision to take away one's own life is usually taken shortly before the attempt suggesting impulsivity. There is evidence supporting that restricting the access to lethal methods reduces the incidence of suicide.

Language: pt

Keywords

attitude; Risk factors; human; violence; suicide; sexual abuse; Mental disorders; Suicide attempt; schizophrenia; stress; cause of death; suicide attempt; suicidal behavior; mood disorder; risk factor; review; conflict; mental disease; personality disorder; life event; grief; drug dependence; negligence; Adverse life events