Why are men killing themselves? A look at the evidence

Suicide rates have always been higher for men than for women despite women making more suicide attempts. This article looks at the evidence for this phenomenon.

Possible reasons are examined in the light of published evidence following a literature review of the topic. The general practitioner's role in detecting men who are at risk and effecting appropriate management is discussed.

Men are more likely to kill themselves because of the more lethal means they use, because of their higher levels of alcohol and drug use, and because they are less likely to present for medical care. General practitioners can effectively assess those at risk, and refer to their local mental health agencies, or treat major depression themselves.