psych 2

Question 1

give 4 factors that increase the risk of suicide

Answer 1

1. previous suicide attempt
2. family history of suicide
3. early onset bipolar
4. extent of depressive symptoms (hopelessness)
5. increasing bad affective signs
6. mixed affective states
7. rapid cycling
8. abuse of alcohol and drugs

bare in mind that lithium will reduce the risk of suicide but if contraindicated then give the, olanzapine and fluoxetine. these may be better than lamotrigine. dont only rely on medication as CBT is of great value in helping people to ride their cycles without falling off.

lithium is also very teratogenic.