Factors associated with the recurrence of suicidal thoughts and behaviours among depressed veterans who have attempted suicide

Abstract: The recurrence of suicidal thoughts and behaviours represent a common threat to the wellbeing and lives of people who attempt suicide. It is not clear whether suicide risk models reflect risk for multiple suicide attempts, especially in high-risk groups. Factors associated with the recurrence of suicidal ideation and attempts was assessed in 82 military Veterans who had attempted suicide. Participants completed clinical diagnostic interviews and self-reported assessments of suicidal thoughts and behaviours, depression severity, hopelessness and burdensomeness. Hopelessness, perceived burdensomeness and beliefs about suicide were associated with the recent recurrence of suicidal ideation among Veterans who attempted suicide. Beliefs about suicide, suicidal planning and help seeking following a suicide attempt were significantly associated with multiple suicide attempts. Suicide postvention interventions should target beliefs about suicide and adaptive help seeking in depressed military Veterans who have attempted suicide.