Suicidal Ideation among HIV Positive Patients

Background: Globally one million people die by suicide every year. Suicide is a complex phenomenon caused by biopsychosocial factors. It has been observed that people suffering with chronic diseases including immunosuppressive disorders, and HIV/ AIDS are at greater risk of suicidal behaviour. Aim: To study suicidal ideation and its correlates in HIV positive patients. Methods: A semi‐structured socio‐demographic Performa and mini international neuropsychiatric interview (MINI PLUS) was assessed to study suicidal ideation and its relationship with psychiatric disorders in 50 male and female HIV positive patients aged 18‐60yrs without past psychiatric, organic brain disorder and current alcohol and substance dependence at regional institute of medical sciences (RIMS), Imphal, between 2009‐2011. Result: Suicidal ideation was reported by 26% of HIV positive individuals. Psychiatric diagnosis especially major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder was associated significantly with suicidal ideation. Conclusion: Suicidal ideation in HIV positive patients are significantly higher than the general population which emphasizes the need to screen for mental illness and suicide risk assessment