Suicide in children and adolescents in England and Wales 1970-1998

Suicide rates for England and Wales have been decreasing recently, but rates for young adult males remain high.

To review changes in suicide rates for children and adolescents in England and Wales between 1970 and 1998.

Rates for suicide, 'accidental' death by causes similar to suicide and 'undetermined' death for 10-14- and 15-19-year-olds are calculated between 1970 and 1998 using suicide data and estimated mid-year populations obtained from the Office for National Statistics.

There has been a substantial increase in suicide rate between the 1970s and the 1990s for males aged 15-19 years. This remains true even when 'undetermined' and 'accidental' death rates for causes similar to suicide are examined. The increase was associated with an increase in self-poisoning with vehicle exhaust gas in the 1980s and an increase in hanging which has continued into the 1990s. Although there was a slight decrease in the official suicide rate for females aged 15-19 years, 'undetermined' deaths increased. There is no indication of a major change in suicide rate in 10-14-year-olds.

The substantial increase in suicide rate in 15-19-year-old males may indicate increased psychosocial stress, particularly affecting this group.