Family Loss and Hospital Suicide

In 19 consecutive cases of inpatient suicide occurring over many years, 18 out of the 19 cases (95 percent) were judged to have a significant "family" loss issue affecting the suicide. In five cases (26 percent), there seemed to be a powerful institutional attachment and loss threatened that attachment. In 13 cases (68 percent), a major family issue was involved which included events that estranged the patient from the family (real or imagined); divorce or separation issues; death or illness of a significant other; a family that insisted on continued treatment (and/or growth). In 13 cases (68 percent), significant communication from or about the "family" occurred which seemed to have an impact on the suicidal behavior often within days of the final event. In 10 cases (53 percent), an actual family visit had occurred within two weeks of the death. These issues are discussed and case examples presented.