There are few studies in literature on the association between mood disorders and violent behaviour. However, the existing literature suggests that commission of crimes can be a serious consequence for individuals suffering from such diseases, especially in the manic phase and if the disorder is associated with substance abuse, as a complication or comorbidity. The crimes of these patients are often impulsive and related to psychotic symptoms. The authors report the cases of three men who have committed violent crimes because suffering from a mood disorder, had abused substances, and had also developed delusional beliefs. The need for greater scientific attention on the relationship between mood disorders and violent crime is stressed.
