Previous reports have demonstrated that depressive mixed state (DMX) (major depressive episode + 3 or more co-occurring intradepressive hypomanic symptoms) and agitated depression are overlapping conditions. The aim of the current study was to examine the relation of DMX and suicide attempt.

Using a structured interview (modified Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview) and determining all the symptoms of 16 Axis I psychiatric diagnoses defined by the DSM-IV, the authors examined 100 consecutive nonviolent suicide attempters (aged 18-65) within 24 hours after their attempts. Results. DMX was present in 63.0% in the total sample and in 71% among the 89 depressive suicide attempters. More than 90% of the patients with DMX had the symptoms of irritability, distractibility and psychomotor agitation. The rate of DMX was significantly higher among the 29 bipolar (I+II) than in 37 unipolar depressive suicide attempters (90% vs 62%).

This study included suicide attempters who had presented self-poisoning, but not individuals with very high risk of fatality.

In suicide attempters there is a very high prevalence of DMX, especially among bipolar depressive suicide attempters. This study underlines the importance of detecting and appropriate treating DMX and especially depressive bipolar mixed subgroup in suicide behaviour prevention.