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Suicide and PTSD

According to epidemiological investigations between 1.1% and 4.6% of the population have a suicidal attempt at some point during their life (Kessler et al, 1999; Dube et al, 2001). But numerous studies have found strong links between suicide-related thoughts and behavior with traumaPsychological trauma can happen soon after witnessing or being the victim of a traumatic event .... Investigations have shown that PTSDPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the anxiety disorders that occur after a person sees, is involved in, or hears of an extreme traumatic stressor ... patients (combat-related or civilian PTSDPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the anxiety disorders that occur after a person sees, is involved in, or hears of an extreme traumatic stressor ...) are at higher risk for suicide (Adams et al, 1998; Kotler et al, 2001; Tarrier N et al, 2004). Some studies have shown that higher risk was connected with with high levels of impulsivity and poor social support (Kotler et, 2001). Some point out (Oquendo et al, 2005) that PTSDPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the anxiety disorders that occur after a person sees, is involved in, or hears of an extreme traumatic stressor ... comorbid with depression enhances the risk for suicidal behavior. Other factors that were strongly associated with suicide attempts were guilt about combat actions, survivor guiltA phenomenon that is manifested in those who are relieved that someone else has died, and not himself/herself ..., depression, anxiety and severe PTSDPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the anxiety disorders that occur after a person sees, is involved in, or hears of an extreme traumatic stressor ... (Hendin and Haas, 1991). Suicide attemps are also higher among women who were sexually assaulted and raped (Davidson et al. 1996). (T.J.)

References:

  • Dube SR, Anda RF, Felitti VJ, Chapman DP, Williamson DF, Giles W. Childhood abuse, household dysfunction and the risk of attempted suicide throughout the life span: findings from the adverse childhood experience study. J Am Med Assoc 2001;286:3089-96
  • Adams DP, Barton C, Mitchell GL, Moore AL, Einagel V. Hearts and minds:suicide among United States combat troops in Vietnam. Soc Sci Med 1998;1687:94
  • Davidson JRT, Hughes DC, George LK, Blazer DG. The association of sexual assault and attempted suicide within the community. Arch Gen Psychiatry 1996;53:550-5

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