Suicide is a significant concern for individuals with schizophrenia, but not all individuals with this diagnosis attempt or die by suicide, suggesting some may have resilience against suicide triggers. Authors of a systematic literature review aimed to examine psychological factors that may contribute to this resilience and categorize them into broader constructs. The review followed PRISMA guidelines and involved a search of four electronic databases (Web of Science, PubMed, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE). A quality evaluation of the studies was conducted by two independent researchers using a specific assessment tool.

The review identified four psychological constructs that may help confer resilience to suicidal thoughts and behaviors: (1) perceived social support, (2) holding religious and spiritual beliefs, (3) identifying reasons for living, and (4) perceived positive personal skills and attributes. While the findings highlighted the importance of resilience in understanding suicidal thoughts in schizophrenia, the literature was limited. The authors suggest the need for future prospective research on how psychological resilience moderates the pathways to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Clinically, assessing perceived personal attributes and levels of social support could be beneficial in managing suicidal risks in those with schizophrenia diagnoses.

Reference: Harris K, Haddock G, Peters S, Gooding P. Psychological resilience to suicidal thoughts and behaviours in people with schizophrenia diagnoses: A systematic literature review. Psychol Psychother. 2020;93(4):777-809. doi: 10.1111/papt.12255.