A Study on Sequential Warning Signs of Suicide Using Psychological Autopsy Data
10.4306/jknpa.2025.64.4.258
- Author:
Jin-Hwa CHOI
1
;
Hye-Jin KIM
;
Seon-A LEE
;
Tae-Yeon HWANG
Author Information
1. Department of Counseling Psychology, Seowon University, Cheongju, Korea
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:Journal of Korean Neuropsychiatric Association
2025;64(4):258-265
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objectives:This study analyzed the sequential warning signs of suicide to identify remote, intermediate, and urgent signs.
Methods:Data from 978 cases collected through psychological autopsy interviews conducted by the Korea Foundation for Suicide Prevention from 2016 to 2023 were analyzed. Trained interviewers conducted the interviews using the Korea Psychological Autopsy Checklist. Frequency analysis and cross-tabulation were performed to identify high-frequency warning signs by their timing.
Results:Ten high-frequency warning signs were identified. Among them, the warning signs with the highest ranking of remote occurrences were talking about suicide, complaints of discomfort, making self-deprecating remarks, changes in sleep patterns, and engaging in substance abuse.The warning signs with the highest ranking of intermediate occurrences were changes in eating conditions, difficulty concentrating, social withdrawal, anger and irritation, and depression and lethargy. In particular, changes in eating conditions and depression and lethargy had a higher proportion of urgent occurrences compared to remote occurrences.
Conclusion:The high-frequency warning signs identified in this study must be widely understood and recognized by the general public, families of individuals with mental illnesses, medical professionals, and social welfare workers. Furthermore, techniques for recognizing and responding to the warning signs must be developed and incorporated into educational programs.
