This research examined the role of self-criticism as a personality dimension in suicide risk, assessed through the presence of at least one suicide attempt. Ninety-two adults participated, ranging in age from 20 to 65 years (M = 42.73, SD = 12.95), divided into three groups: 22 individuals with a psychiatric disorder and who previously attempted suicide, 39 individuals with a psychiatric disorder without a prior suicide attempt and 31 individuals from the community. Participants answered the Depressive Experiences Questionnaire – Short form - and the Brief Symptom Inventory. The groups were compared using an ANOVA and an ANCOVA, considering psychopathology as a co-variable. Results indicate that individuals who have attempted suicide and individuals with a psychiatric disorder without previous suicide attempts presented significantly higher levels of self-criticism compared to community individuals. No significant differences were found between the clinical groups.