Suicidal ideation and attempts in patients with major depression: Sociodemographic and clinical variables

Background: There is a high risk of suicidal attempt in patients with depression. This risk varies according to the sociodemographic status and clinical presentation.

Aim: To assess the prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt in patients with major depressive disorder, and to find the correlation between the two.

Methods: Sixty patients with major depressive disorder having suicidal ideation were recruited in the study. Of these, 10 had a history of suicidal attempt made in the past or current episode. Sociodemographic details were evaluated and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) was administered.

Results: Analysis of the data showed that the incidence of suicidal attempt was 16.6% in patients with suicidal ideation. Statistically, a higher risk of suicidal attempt was found in individuals <30 years of age. Single men, married women and students were more likely to attempt suicide; higher education was also a vulnerability factor. Attempters scored significantly higher in severity of suicidal ideation, agitation and paranoid symptoms whereas among non-attempters, hypochondriasis and general somatic symptoms were more often present.

Conclusion: All patients expressing suicidal ideation do not attempt suicide. Young patients with depression, especially unmarried men, married women and students, having severe suicidal ideation with agitation or paranoid symptoms are more likely to attempt suicide.