The association between suicidal ideation and increased mortality from natural causes

Abstract

Background: Despite strong evidence for increased suicide mortality among individuals experiencing thoughts of suicide, the effect of suicidal ideation on increased natural mortality has not been evaluated. The present study aimed to assess whether there is excess mortality from all natural causes or from specific natural causes that is attributable to suicidal ideation. Adjustments were made for a range of demographic, mental health and physical health measures to examine evidence for specific mechanisms of the relationship. Method: A community-based Australian cohort of 861 older adults was followed for up to 17 years. Vital status and cause of death were ascertained from a national death ..