History of suicidal behaviour in the families of young suicides

The prevalence of attempted or completed suicide was studied in the families of a consecutive sample of young suicide victims aged 15-29 years. In 17 of 42 (40%) of the men and 5 of 16 (31%) of the women suicidal behaviour was found to be present in first-degree relatives. Male suicide victims with a family history of suicidal behaviour had an earlier debut of their own suicidal behaviour, longer suicidal processes, and had made more previous suicide attempts. Families in which suicidal behaviour was displayed by the victim's parents or siblings also had more frequent early separations between parent and victim and more substance abuse. Taking into account suicide by a friend or second-degree family member, it was found that 72% of suicide victims had a history of suicidal behaviour in close relationships.