A new study shows that major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder both increase the risk that someone will commit suicide.

Researchers at Columbia University have been looking at childhood abuse and personality disorder as risk factors for suicidal act. They found that 41 per cent in their study group reported childhood abuse. Previous work suggests that about a third of those with a history of suffering abuse go on to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In PTSD, exposure to trauma like childhood abuse and neglect, terrorist attack, war or other catastrophe may lead to nightmares, flashbacks and social withdrawal. This study revealed that PTSD was a significant risk factor for suicide, especially if the person also suffered with depression. Women seemed to be more at risk than men in this context. The researchers say that it's important to assess suicide risk among people with PTSD so they can be supported for as long as necessary.

Source

American Journal of Psychiatry March 2003