Abstract

Affective disorders and suicidal behaviors are closely linked. They are among the most important public health problems in the western world. One million people may die every year as a consequence of self-inflicted harm. Moreover, it is estimated that 9 to 36 million people attempt suicide every year. Within this population of suicide attempters, the prevalence of mental disorders is extremely high. The most frequent diagnosis among subjects who have completed suicide, according to psychological autopsies, is affective disorders. Specifically, bipolar disorder has been repeatedly reported as the mental disorder with the highest risk for completed suicide. In this chapter we will analyze the current epidemiological data concerning the relationship between affective disorders and the suicidal spectrum, including suicidal ideation, attempted suicide and completed suicide. We will also examine the association of affective disorders with specific subpopulations of suicide attempters, such as frequent attempters. In addition, we will analyze the influence of sociodemographic and economic variables on the development of this type of behavior. Finally, we will introduce some of the available pharmacological treatment options and preventive strategies that have been applied to diminish the risk of suicidal behaviors among populations affected by affective disorders.