Citation

Preuss UW, Wong JWM. Suchttherapie 2019; 20(3): 135-143.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019)

DOI

10.1055/a-0945-2620

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Epidemiological data shows high rates of suicidal behavior in alcohol-dependent individuals, which presents a challenge in diagnosing and treating affected patients. This narrative aims to identify risk factors for suicidal ideation and action, with tips to diagnosis and treatment. Risk factors include affective disorder, aggressive and impulsive behaviors, other drug use disorders and a more severe course of alcohol dependence. Biologically important are alterations in the serotonergic and noradrenergic neurotransmissions, and dysfunction of prefrontal cortical regions. Treatment-seeking, alcohol-dependent individuals often present with multiple risk factors. In diagnostics, history of suicide attempts yields a high comorbidity of alcohol dependence with mental disorders. Pilot trials support the use of CBT and DBT in this population as the best currently available approaches of psychotherapy. Treatment of affective disorders with antidepressants presents the most promising pharmacological approach. Future studies may clarify the relative efficacy of current psychotherapeutic and pharmacological approaches, and help develop new and innovative strategies. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart New York.

Language: de

Keywords

suicide; suicide attempts; Alcohol dependence; alcohol use disorders; suicidal ideations