Experts indicate that a number of suicidal risk factors exist for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Depression is particularly common in people diagnosed with the illness. Around 17% suffer from major depression and another 35% experience significant depressive symptoms. Other risk factors associated with suicide include anxiety and insomnia.
Parkinson’s Disease 101
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is diagnosed primarily by the presence of motor symptoms including bradykinesia or slowness of movement, resting tremor and muscle rigidity. There are also non-motor symptoms (depression, anxiety) that lead to its diagnosis, cause a decline in well-being and quality of life, put the individual at risk for being admitted to a nursing home and are predictors of overall mortality. Symptoms start gradually and almost unnoticeable and then become more severe as the disease progresses.
Risk Factors for Suicide
While depression, anxiety, and insomnia are the main neuropsychiatric risk factors associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviors, there are other important factors to examine. Men, especially Caucasian from European decent, who are diagnosed with Parkinson’s are more likely to try and complete suicide attempts. Individuals with pre-existing psychiatric conditions like bipolar disorder, alcohol or substance use disorders, or psychosis are also at higher risks for suicide. Those who have a history of self-harm or past attempts are also at higher risk.