The Journal of clinical psychiatry
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The primary aim was to relate Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity and serointensity to scores on the self-rated Suicide Assessment Scale (SUAS-S). Another aim was to reevaluate the previously reported positive association between T gondii serointensity and a history of nonfatal suicidal self-directed violence. ⋯ These results are consistent with previous reports on the association between T gondii infection and nonfatal suicidal self-directed violence. Confirming these results in future large longitudinal studies and including suicide as an outcome may lead to novel individualized approaches in suicide prevention.
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Although depression is the strongest predictor for the full spectrum of suicidal ideation, several other mental disorders, eg, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are associated with suicidal ideation too. This study investigates whether suicidal ideation is specifically associated with PTSD or if this association is fully or partially mediated by comorbid depressive disorders. ⋯ The results of our study indicate that PTSD is associated with suicidal ideation, but this association was fully explained by comorbid depressive symptoms in the elderly general population. Thus, screening for depressive symptoms as well as administering an appropriate therapy seems the best way to prevent suicide attempts in the elderly, even in those patients with traumatic experiences and/or PTSD.
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Chronic pain is a common but undertreated health problem in the United States. Opioids are effective for moderate-to-severe chronic pain, but these drugs must be used with care due to the risks for overdose and addiction. ⋯ Patients should be monitored regularly for both improvement of function and for aberrant drug behaviors. With proper monitoring and risk management, patients with chronic pain can be treated effectively and safely with opioids.