Prevalence and predictors of suicide attempt in an incidence cohort of 661 young people with first-episode psychosis

Abstract

Objectives: Studies investigating suicidal behaviour in psychosis rarely focus on incidence cohorts of first-episode patients. This is important, because patients who refuse study participation have higher rates of comorbid substance use disorders and longer duration of untreated psychosis as well as worse course illness, variables potentially linked to higher prevalence of suicidal behaviour. The aims of the present study were therefore to examine the prevalence and predictors of suicide and suicide attempt before and during the first 18-24months of treatment. Method: A retrospective file audit of 661 patients was carried out. Results: Six patients (0.9%) died by suicide, 93 (14.3%) attempt..