HOPELESSNESS IN SUICIDE ATTEMPTERS AFTER ACUTE TREATMENT OF MAJOR DEPRESSION IN LATE-LIFE

The relation between hopelessness and suicide attempts in the elderly was examined by studying the course of hopelessness in depressed patie nts. Sixty-three elderly patients with recurrent major depression were treated with nortriptyline and interpersonal psychotherapy and underw ent serial ratings of hopelessness and depression during the acute and continuation phases of treatment. Patients who had made a suicide att empt in the east had significantly higher hopelessness scores than non attempters during both phases of treatment. They were also more likely to drop out of treatment. A high degree of hopelessness persisting af ter remission of depression in elderly patients appears to be associat ed with a history of suicidal behavior. It may also increase the likel ihood of premature discontinuation of treatment and lead to future sui cide attempts or suicide.