Suicide among schizophrenics. Who is at risk?

Schizophrenic patients are at high risk for suicide. Most of the clinical features of the illness which have been associated with suicide remain speculative. This study provides an empirical test of hypothetical risk factors from the literature. Results indicate that schizophrenic patients who kill themselves have high internalized standards of performance which are often congruent with past educational attainments. They are also realistically aware of the effects of their illness, feel inadequate in relation to their goals, and fear further mental disintegration. Their affect is depressed, and they express hopelessness about the future. Suicidal ideation and explicit suicide threats often precede death. These results can be used to assess suicide risk among schizophrenic patients.