An Impulsive Suicide Attempt in a Patient with No Psychiatric History and a Recent COVID-19 Diagnosis: A case report. (1st June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kim, J.; Jackson, C.; Raai, H.
• Is Part Of: European psychiatry. Volume 65:Supplement 1(2022)
• Page Start: S474
• Page End: S474
• Publication Date: 2022-06-01
• Subjects: Coronavirus -- Covid-19 -- Suicide; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; Mental illness -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.89
• DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2022.1204
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0924-9338

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic has prompted concerns regarding increased suicide rates and exacerbation of underlying mental illness symptoms. There is evidence suggesting neurocognitive changes as well as immune response in COVID-19 infection may increase a patient's propensity for suicidal ideation. Patients who are diagnosed with COVID-19 may be affected by psychological factors of anxiety, stress related to having this novel virus as well as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and sleep disorders throughout treatment and post-treatment of continued concerns. The combination of psychiatric, neurological, and physical symptoms associated with COVID-19 may elevate suicide risk Objectives: We present a case of a female with no prior psychiatric history who impulsively attempted suicide after a recent COVID-19 diagnosis and subsequent quarantine. Will explore possible link between increase of suicidal ideation and COVID-19 infection. Methods: A case report. Results: Link between increase of suicidal ideation and COVID-19 infection has not been clearly established but there have been reports, as in our case, of the possible vulnerability to mental illness and new onset suicidal ideation that COVID-19 survivors may experience. It may be useful to screen all patients for depressive symptoms after a COVID-19 infection. Early identification and treatment of depression in recovered COVID-19 patients will help to improve psychological impact on COVID-19 survivors and potentially reduce suicide rates. Conclusions: As COVID-19 infection may trigger new onset mental illness, exacerbate symptoms of underlying mental illness, and may increase suicidal ideation, further research is needed to evaluate links between COVID-19 infection and depression with suicidal ideation Disclosure: No significant relationships.