Wolfgang P. Kaschka Book order

Suicide is one of the most important causes of death in modern societies. To develop more effective preventive measures, we have to be aware of and learn more about its neurobiological foundations. In recent years, the tools of modern neurosciences have increasingly been utilized to characterize the pathophysiology of complex human behaviors such as suicide. To improve suicide risk assessment and suicide prevention, a better understanding of its pathophysiology is crucial. This includes research from a variety of disciplines such as neuropsychological, psychosocial and cultural studies but also findings from biochemistry, neuropathology, electrophysiology, immunology, neuroimaging, genetics, and epigenetics. Important results have, for example, been obtained in the field of gene-environment interaction and suicidal behavior. We have just begun to understand how early-life adversity may increase suicide risk by epigenetic mechanisms. Based on such insights, novel therapeutic interventions and preventive measures can be developed. Furthermore, a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in suicidal behavior could reveal the mechanism of compounds like lithium salts. In this book, suicidal behavior and its prevention is discussed by international experts in the light of the most recent results from a broad spectrum of neurosciences.

In this publication a comprehensive overview of the state of the art and future perspectives is given in the fields of basic research, diagnosis, therapy, suicide and relapse prevention, and psychiatric care regarding patients with affective disorders. Presented are decisive new developments which have been milestones in basic research or diagnosis, pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy of affective disorders. The contributions of renowned experts in the field include quantitative brain morphology and developments in genetics and neurochemistry. Special attention has been given to neuropharmacology, pharmacogenetics, electrophysiology, structural and functional neuroimaging of affective disorders as well as new therapeutic options in the field of psychotherapy. Moreover, important clinical issues such as modern aspects of preventing relapse, suicide and postnatal depression in mothers are discussed. Psychiatrists, psychotherapists, neurobiologists and students who participate in the treatment of patients with affective diseases will find this book valuable reading.