A comprehensive model of predictors of suicide attempt in individuals with panic disorder: Results from a national 3-year prospective study

People with panic disorder are at increased risk of suicide. Multiple factors influence their risk suggesting a need to combine them into an integrative model to develop more effective suicide prevention strategies for this population. In this report, we sought to build a comprehensive model of the 3-year risk of suicide attempt in individuals with panic disorder using a longitudinal nationally representative study, the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC; wave 1, 2001–2002; wave 2, 2004–2005). We used structural equation modeling to simultaneously examine effects of six broad groups of clinical factors previously identified as potential predictors of suicide attempt in adults with panic disorder: 1) severity of panic disorder, 2) severity of comorbidity, 3) prior history of suicide attempt, 4) family history of psychiatric disorders, 5) sociodemographic characteristics and 6) treatment-seeking behavior . The 3-year prevalence rate of suicide attempt was 4.6%. A general psychopathology factor, lower physical health-related quality of life , prior suicide attempt and a greater number of stressful life events at baseline significantly and independently predicted suicide attempt between the two waves ( p < .05). R-square of the models ranged from 0.47 to 0.50. This model may help inform future research and identify high-risk individuals among adults with panic disorder. • Individuals with panic disorder are at high risk of suicide (1.2%–8.0%). • Previous studies identified many potential predictors of suicide attempt. • General psychopathology factor, low quality of life , prior suicide attempt and stressful events, predicted suicide attempt. • More research is needed to better identify individuals with panic disorder at high-risk of suicide.