Depressive Disorder and Suicidal Tendencies: Role of Psychological Pain and Health-Related Quality of Life

With over 720,000 people dying by suicide each year and many more attempting it, suicide events have become a significant public health concern. Individuals with depressive disorders are particularly at risk, as suicide is one of the most common preventable causes of death in this group. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between psychological pain, health-related quality of life, and suicidal tendencies among patients with depressive disorder. The study included 73 patients hospitalized in the psychiatric ward at a University Psychiatric Hospital. To assess the observed variables, a battery of questionnaires was administered, consisting of a sociodemographic questionnaire and validated instruments, including Suicide Screening Questionnaire—Self Rating (SSQ-SR), the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and the Mee–Bunney Psychological Pain Assessment Scale (MBPPA). A significant association was found between psychological pain, health-related quality of life, and suicidal tendencies. Higher levels of psychological pain and greater impairment in physical, emotional, and social functioning were associated with a higher presence of risk factors for suicide. Psychological pain, emotional well-being, and physical functioning were significant predictors of suicidal tendencies in individuals with depressive disorders. The results of this study emphasize the importance of psychological pain and specific aspects of health-related quality of life in both the prevention and treatment of suicide.