An examination of DSM-IV depressive symptoms and risk for suicide completion in major depressive disorder: A psychological autopsy study

Among 156 suicides, weight or appetite loss, insomnia, and feelings of worthlessness were more frequently observed depressive symptoms than in 81 major depressive controls.

• Suicidal individuals were more likely to experience weight or appetite loss, insomnia, feelings of worthlessness, or guilt, and recurrent thoughts of death.
• Fatigue and difficulties with concentration or indecisiveness were less common in individuals who died by suicide compared to those with major depression.
• The presence of fatigue and impaired concentration was linked to a reduced risk of suicide.
• Insomnia may serve as an immediate indicator of suicide risk, while weight or appetite loss and feelings of worthlessness or guilt do not.
• Distinct depressive symptoms and their clusters can help differentiate between depressed individuals who die by suicide and those who do not.

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