Citation

Pompili M. Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy 2018; 32(3): 301-314.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Association for Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy in the National Health Service)

DOI

10.1080/02668734.2018.1495662

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Suicide is among the leading causes of death worldwide, accounting for almost one million annual deaths globally. The author presents an exploration into the suicidal mind using Freud's cathexis and decathexis theory. This model describes the patient's withdrawal from reality and the need to gratify libidinal and aggressive drives in the internal world. Theories and beliefs of other authors are used to introduce the importance of early disturbed relationships with parental figures. Working with the particular subtype of suicidal patient described in this essay may be a challenge for clinicians. A psychodynamic approach may help in the understanding of the patient's complex and private world of psychological pain. If unresolved, the patient's conflicts may precipitate suicide. © 2018, © 2018 The Association for Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy in the NHS.

Language: en

Keywords

human; suicide; psychotherapy; risk assessment; mental disease; psychoanalysis; priority journal; narcissism; Article; psychological pain; psychodynamic psychotherapy