Recognizing the suicidal patient
Although suicide rates are higher among older adults, suicides among
younger adults are rising, particularly among those in the military. See
Who’s at risk? for common risk factors.
Patients of any age with chronic, progressive medical conditions and
chronic pain are also at risk. Suicidal ideas may be active (thoughts of
killing one’s self) or passive (feeling hopeless, worthless, and wishing for
death). Patients with mood disorders, substance abuse problems, and
a history of previous suicide attempts are at a higher risk for suicide.
Ninety percent of people who commit suicide have an identifi able
psychiatric diagnosis, typically a mood disorder. Another 30% also have
a substance abuse disorder, mainly alcoholism.