Risk factors for completed suicide in veterans of peacekeeping: repatriation, negative life events, and marital status.
This psychological autopsy study focused on suicide risk factors in veterans of peacekeeping, specifically, a representative sample of Norwegian peacekeepers. A multivariate analysis yielded three dimensions with a unique impact on suicide risk: Involuntary repatriation from peacekeeping service, negative life-events before peacekeeping and marital status. In accordance with previous research into suicidal processes, repatriation probably reflects an event causing severe damage to peacekeepers' self-esteem, which combined with vulnerability and lack of protection could increase suicide risk. Preventive measures should focus on careful personnel selection and follow-up of repatriated individuals.
Thoresen
Siri
S
Norwegian Center for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo, Norway. siri.thoresen@nkvts.unirand.no
Mehlum
Lars
L
Røysamb
Espen
E
Tønnessen
Arnfinn
A
D000328:Adult; D015331:Cohort Studies; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status; D008393:Marriage / Q000523:psychology; D008889:Military Personnel / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D009664:Norway; D010560:Personnel Selection; D012307:Risk Factors; D012931:Social Environment; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology*; D013405:Suicide / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014728:Veterans / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*