Lower quality of life (QoL) scores are associated with suicidal behavior, both in the general population and in psychiatric patients. Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) behavior is a public health concern because of its increasing prevalence and high risk of lifetime suicide attempt. Despite its significance QoL in patients with NSSI is underinvestigated. There is a gap in knowledge on the influence of suicidal ideation (SI) on certain domains and facets of QoL in patients with NSSI.

The study aimed to assess the impact of SI on QoL of patients with NSSI.

We conducted a case-control study (1:3): 13 consecutive patients (11 female) with non-psychotic mental disorders and NSSI without lifetime SI were compared to 39 age and gender matched patients with NSSI and SI. All patients were evaluated by a psychiatrist, underwent Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Interview (Nock MK et al., 2007) and filled out the World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment 100 (WHOQOL-100). Mann-Whitney and Fishers exact test were used as statistical methods.

The overall QoL (p=0.001) and the perception of life (p=0.005) were significantly higher in patients without SI. Patients with SI had a lower scores in psychological (p=0.002), social (p=0.036) and spiritual (p=0.005) domains as well as lower rates in energy (p<0.02); positive emotions (p<0.001); thinking, learning, memory and concentration (p=0.007); self-esteem (p=0.013); negative emotions (p=0.035); activities of daily living and participation (p=0.014) and opportunities for recreation/leisure facets (p=0.007).

SI in patients with NSSI was found to be associated with worse QoL