The Medical clinics of North America
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Most suicides have a diagnosable psychiatric disorder, most frequently, a mood disorder. Psychosocial issues and neurobiological abnormalities such as dysregulation in stress response systems contribute to suicidal behavior. ⋯ As psychiatric disorders are a major risk factor for suicide their pharmacologic and psychological treatment is of utmost importance to prevent suicide. Restriction of access to lethal means is important for suicide prevention.
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Schizophrenia is a disabling condition impacting approximately 1% of the worldwide population. Symptoms include positive symptoms (eg, hallucinations, delusions), negative symptoms (eg, avolition, anhedonia), and cognitive impairment. ⋯ Nondopaminergic medications targeting alternative receptors are under investigation. Supportive psychosocial treatments can work in tandem with antipsychotic medications and optimize patient care.