Suicide is a serious possible complication of depression, other mood disorders and substance abuse, where the patient wishes to end his own life. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that of depression patients, "56.3 percent thought, during their worst or most recent episode, that it would be better if they were dead, 40.3 percent thought about committing suicide, 14.5 percent made a suicide plan and 10.4 percent made a suicide attempt." Patients who are suicidal develop certain changes in behavior, which also affect their emotional responses.
Withdrawal
One characteristic of a suicidal individual is withdrawal from social and interpersonal activities, according to Michael G. Conner, Psy.D, author of the article "Characteristics and Behaviors Associated with Violence and Suicide"; this can be particularly notable in depression patients who were once sociable before the onset of the mood disorder. The patient may avoid social situations and people, resulting in few close friends or unstable relationships. The withdrawal may extend into the patient's professional life, where the patient misses work without a reason; over time, the patient may have problems keeping a job.
Emotional Responses
Emotional responses are different in a suicidal individual. Conner states that the patient may be quick to anger and have rapidly shifting moods. When the patient decides that suicide is his only option, he may go into his own world. Another emotional response is long-term sadness, where the patient has crying spells without an apparent cause. In some cases, the patient may display few facial emotions.
Additional Behaviors
Another characteristic of a suicidal individual is an excessive reaction to criticism: when the patient is criticized, she may become overly upset or defensive. Conner adds that the patient may participate in reckless behavior, especially ones that puts her life in danger. The patient may also lose her ability to take care of herself.
