Prevalence of mental disorders in 1519 suicides: A meta-analysis

Abstract

Introduction

Psychological autopsy studies have constantly indicated a clear relation between mental disorders and suicide. This relation has been found in studies across the world, although the percentage of cases with at least one mental disorder diagnosed may vary between studies and specially, between countries and geographical regions.

Methods

Review of psychological autopsy studies of suicide completers which contained information on diagnostic distribution. Only studies carried out in Europe and North America were included.

Results

A total of 14 studies, including 1519 suicides, were analyzed (Table 1).

Conclusions

Suicide risk is a multifactor phenomenon, however, it is strongly related to mental disorders. Mental health strategies should be directed to target clinical groups at high risk of suicide.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Table 1