Correlation of Suicidal Thoughts and Suicide Attempts in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Background: The chronicity of multiple sclerosis (MS) plays a key role in 25% of suicides. Therefore, it is essential to assess the other influential factors in this regard. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts in patients with MS and the correlated factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 203 MS patients referred to the MS Society of Kermanshah, Iran during August-October 2015. Data were collected using a checklist of demographics and patient records, Ifudu comorbidity index, 100-meter walk test, and Beck’s depression and suicidal thoughts scales. Data analysis was performed using binary logistic regression analysis. Results: In total, 30% of the patients had suicidal thoughts, and 8.4% had suicide attempts. After adjustment for demographics, the obtained results indicated that illiterate patients (P < 0.05) and those with a higher depression grade (P < 0.001) were at a higher risk of suicidal thoughts. Illiteracy, older age at the first diagnosis, and being a housewife or unemployed (P < 0.05) significantly decreased the likelihood of suicide attempts, while comorbidities, suicidal thoughts, and depression (P < 0.05) significantly increased the likelihood of suicide attempts. Conclusions: Since MS patients are highly prone to suicidal thoughts and even suicide attempts, providing training and preventive psychological interventions are recommended for high-risk cases, such as illiterate patients with challenging jobs, young patients, and patients with comorbidities and depression.