Review of suicide risk in MS

Life can be tough at times for anyone and having MS can significantly add to the list of things that someone has to deal with. On top of this, anxiety and depression are more common in people with MS than in the general population. All this can result in some people with MS having thoughts of suicide, as life can seem too much at times.

This study reviewed the risk of suicide in people with MS.

The researchers reviewed the results of 12 previous studies which had been published in peer reviewed journals (indicating that they were high quality studies).

Most of the previous studies had found a higher rate of suicide in people with MS than in the general population. MS-related risk factors included severe depression, having a progressive type of MS, an earlier disease course or higher level of disability. In addition, people in certain situations were more at risk of suicide. They included those on a low income, who were socially isolated, younger or not driving.

The researchers suggest that health professionals should be aware of the higher risk of suicide in people with MS.

Pompili M, Forte A, Palermo M, et al.
Suicide risk in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review of current literature.
J Psychosom Res. 2012 Dec;73(6):411-7.

Suicide or thoughts of suicide are topics that are difficult to talk about and completely taboo in some circles.

Families and friends can often be really supportive. However, sometimes, someone may feel that they want to protect those closest to them so they don't want to say exactly how they feel. Sometimes, they may worry that, if they explain what thoughts they are experiencing, they won't be taken seriously as "everyone has a bad day occasionally".

Health professionals can be really helpful in providing support and by referring someone to specialist services if appropriate. Your GP or MS nurse can help if you are having suicidal thoughts or are concerned about someone else.

There are also confidential helplines like the Samaritans who will help talk things through. You can reach them on 08457 90 90 90 They are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Information on help for suicidal thoughts can be found on the NHS website, including groups who specialise in helping children, young people or men with suicidal thoughts.

Depression and anxiety are more common in MS than in the general population. It is estimated that about half of all people with MS will experience an episode of depression at some stage.

You can read more about anxiety in the A-Z of MS. There is also information on depression.

The following can be signs of depression and, if you experience any of these, you might want to talk to your doctor or MS nurse.

• Persistent sadness lasting more than two weeks, or unexplained tearfulness
• Altered sleep patterns - finding it difficult to sleep or sleeping too much
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt and low self-esteem - you lose interest in personal care and the way you look
• Reduced energy and inability to concentrate or take pleasure in anything
• Social withdrawal
• Thoughts of suicide or death

Depression can occur at any time in MS including in response to diagnosis, a relapse or difficult circumstances. Some medications can have depression as a side effect, in which case, trying a different drug can make a big difference. Although depression can be the consequence of living with a long term condition, it can also be a symptom of MS due to damage to parts of the brain that are involved in mood and emotion.

A range of treatments are available for depression and usually work well. You may be offered anti-depressant drug treatment or talking therapies or a combination of both.