PTSD and Self-Directed Violence

Abstract

Although posttraumatic stress disorder is a well-established risk factor for suicide ideation and suicide attempts (i.e., suicidal self-directed violence), very little is understood about the mechanisms that account for this relationship. Early research examining potential mechanisms connecting posttraumatic stress disorder with suicidal self-directed violence has generally not been based on empirically supported psychological models, which may explain in part inconsistent results to date. The recent application of two contemporary models for suicidal self-directed violence, the interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide (Joiner 2005) and the fluid vulnerability theory of suicide (Rudd 2000), has led to new discoveries with more consistent findings. Both models are discussed, as are preliminary findings from clinical trials suggesting that trauma-focused therapies contribute to reduced risk for suicide ideation, in contrast to general assumptions about treatment safety with individuals who have posttraumatic stress disorder.