Assessment of Patients Who Attempt Suicide

Suicidal behavior is influenced in varying degrees by biological, personal, and social factors. Identifying 4 common reasons for suicidal acts (psychosis, major depression, philosophical reasons, and poor impulse control) can be very helpful in evaluating suicidal patients quickly and making decisions about how patients should be treated. Educating the general public and primary care physicians about these reasons while addressing biological, personal, and social factors that contribute to them can improve understanding of suicidal behavior and patient involvement in and adherence to the treatment process.