Individuals with Schizophrenia and Relevant Psychotic Disorders: A Clinical Population with Increased Incidence for Involuntary Admission Due to Suicidal Behavior.

Abstract

Objective: Investigation of socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals involuntary admitted in the Psychiatric Hospital of Cyprus with suicidal behavior. Material and Method: A descriptive correlation study with cross-sectional comparisons was performed in a sample of 40 individuals (Sampling period 12/2016-02/2018). Data collection was conducted via individual interviews using a structured questionnaire, encompassing demographic and clinical characteristics, along with the PANSS, HAM-D, YMRS and HAM-A scales to assess the intensity of psychotic, depressive, manic and anxiety symptoms. Results: The majority of the sample were Greek-Cypriots, 32 males and 8 females, between 25-34 years. 26 of them had a positive history of substance use, while 20 of them were meeting criteria for dual diagnosis. The most frequent clinical diagnosis was schizophrenia (15%) and relevant psychotic disorders (65%). The most common symptom coexisting with suicidal behavior was substance abuse (50%), while 35% of sample reported no adherence to medication during the period before suicidal behavior. The most frequent methods of suicide attempt were fall from height (20%) and overdose (20%). Positive history of substance use was positively and strongly associated with suicidal behavior (x², p&lt

0.001, Cramer's V=0.629), as well as the type of admission diagnosis (x², p&lt

0.05, Cramer's V=0.443), since individuals with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders seemed to have increased risk for suicidal behavior than individuals with mood disorders. Overall, those involuntary admitted in the Psychiatric hospital of Cyprus because of suicidal behavior were more often Greek-Cypriot males, of secondary education, Orthodox Christians, single, aged 25-34 years, residents of urban areas (districts of Nicosia and Limassol), for the first time involuntary admitted in the psychiatric hospital, with a positive history of substance use, mainly cannabis, meeting criteria for dual diagnosis, with no family history of psychiatric disorders. Conclusions: This study demonstrates for the first time the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals involuntary admitted in the psychiatric hospital of Cyprus due to suicidal behavior. Reappraisal of the effectiveness of community-based interventions related to education on substance use and medication adherence are recom- mended, with special focus on individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and psychotic disorders. Prevention of substance use, as well as adherence to treatment is vital to mitigate relapses or/and suicidal behavior in individuals with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.