Suicidal Behavior Disorder

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Suicidal Behavior Disorder

Medically reviewed · Ratel Health editorial team · Sunday, 16 August 2026

A condition, proposed for further study in DSM-5, describing a recent suicide attempt, used to support clinical attention and follow-up care.

Overview

Suicidal behavior disorder is a condition included for further study in the DSM-5, referring to a suicide attempt within the past 24 months, used to help direct clinical attention, risk assessment, and follow-up care.

Signs and Symptoms

This classification is based on the occurrence of a recent suicide attempt itself, rather than a specific symptom pattern, and is used to support structured clinical follow-up. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors

Risk factors for suicidal behavior can include co-occurring mental health conditions, prior attempts, access to lethal means, and significant psychosocial stressors, though risk is highly individual.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR as part of a comprehensive assessment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.

Psychotherapy

Structured follow-up care, safety planning, and evidence-based therapies for suicide prevention are central to treatment after an attempt.

Medication

Treatment of any underlying mental health condition, along with close follow-up, is an important part of ongoing care. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.

Living With Suicidal Behavior Disorder

If you or someone you know may be in immediate danger, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.

Emergency Situations

If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.

Outlook

With structured follow-up care and treatment of underlying conditions, many individuals see a significant reduction in future risk over time.

Related Conditions

Non-Suicidal Self-Injury

A condition involving deliberate, self-inflicted damage to body tissue without suicidal intent, often used as a way to cope with intense emotional distress.

Major Depressive Disorder

A mood disorder involving persistent sadness or loss of interest that interferes with daily life for at least two weeks.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
  • National Institute of Mental Health.
  • World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.