The Relationship Between Sensory Processing, Substance Abuse and Impulsivity With Suicide in Schizophrenia: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Schizophrenia is a debilitating and complex mental health disorder characterized by symptoms, such as delusions, hallucinations, and cognitive impairments. A high comorbidity rate is observed between substance abuse, schizophrenia and impulsivity. Given the higher rate of suicide among individuals with schizophrenia, this research aims to investigate the correlation between three factors, sensory processing, substance abuse and impulsivity, concerning suicide in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Methods: Research was conducted on PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science using the keywords “schizophrenia,” “substance use disorder (SUD),” “sensory processing,” “suicide” and “impulsivity.” Sixteen articles were selected as the most recent and relevant studies for reporting. Results: The reviewed studies demonstrated a high prevalence of suicide in patients with schizophrenia, particularly during the early stages of the illness. Impulsivity plays a contributing role in the elevated rates of suicide and substance abuse, with substance abuse directly influencing the incidence of suicide. Moreover, sensory processing difficulties can lead to self-harm and suicide. Therefore, the presence of these three factors in patients can increase the risk of suicide. Conclusion: Studies have addressed these risk factors to a considerable extent, less attention has been given to sensory processing, impulsivity, and substance abuse, which are significant factors in self-harm and suicide, as well as their predictive value for suicide. Further studies in this area are recommended.