Suicide in Auckland 1989 to 1997

The aim of this study was to describe the population of people who had committed suicide in Auckland in the nine years, 1989 to 1997.

We extracted data from the police records to the coroner and the autopsy reports on people who had killed themselves in the Auckland coronial region.

Suicide is common and disproportionately affects young men, the unemployed and sickness beneficiaries. Few people who kill themselves appear to be in contact with the mental health services.

For effective prevention, up to date local information on suicide and deliberate self-harm is needed.