Clinical risk factors for suicidality in young males with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

Abstract

Background: Schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD) are linked to a higher risk of suicidality, especially among young adults. Despite progress in psychiatric treatments, suicidality remains a leading cause of early death in this group. Symptoms like depression and anxiety are increasingly seen as major contributors to this risk. This study aims to explore clinical risk factors for suicidality in young males inpatients diagnosed with SSD, focusing on the roles of depression, anxiety, and previous suicidal behavior.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Psychiatric Hospital no. 1 named after N.A. Alexeev of the Department of Health of Moscow, involving 40 male inpatients aged 18-35 years. Participants were divided into two groups: those with suicidal behavior (n=20) and those without (n=20). Psychometric assessments included the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and Personal and Social Performance scale (PSP). Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and Student's t-tests were used.

Results: The group with suicidal behavior had significantly higher scores on the C-SSRS and CDSS, as well as on the PANSS anxiety/depression subscale, compared to the control group. Regression analysis indicated that depression and anxiety accounted for 74% of the variance in suicidality scores. No significant differences in social functioning (PSP) were found between the groups. A history of suicide attempts was not a significant predictor in this sample.

Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are significant predictors of suicidality in young males with SSD. Historical suicide attempts showed no significant effect in this sample. The findings underscore the importance of regular screening and timely intervention to lower suicide risk in young adults with SSD.