Suicidal Ideation in Patients With Gender Identity Disorder in Western Iran From March 2019 to March 2020

Background: In recent years, the number of patients with gender identity disorder (GID) has rapidly increased. These people are at risk of adverse life events that influence their health and wellbeing. Research studies have also shown a significant rate of suicide in these individuals. This study aims to determine the prevalence of suicidal ideation in patients with GID referred to Legal Medicine Office in Ilam Province.Methods: In study sample comprised 21 patients without psychiatric comorbidity visited the Legal Medicine Office in Ilam Province for confirmation of transsexuals from March 2019 to March 2020. GID disorder was diagnosed through a GIDYQ (A-A) questionnaire and clinical interview. The Beck scale for suicide ideation was used to clarify and measure the intensity of attitudes, behaviors, and planning for a suicide attempt.Results: In 21 patients with GID, the average score for suicide ideation was 11.6. The average age of patients was 19 years, and all of them were single. In this sample, 19.1% had low risks, 71.5% high risks, 9.5% had very high-risk suicide ideation. Linear regression analysis showed that higher education and higher age were risk factors for suicide ideation in patients with GID.Conclusion: The high rate of suicidal ideation in patients with gender identity disorder makes it essential to pay attention to their mental health. It should be noted that suicidal thoughts can be a basis for suicide attempts.