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Blood alcohol levels in suicide cases
L Hayward1, S R Zubrick, S Silburn
1Epidemiology Branch, Health Department of Western Australia, Perth.
Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Alcohol consumption before suicide was examined in Western Australia. While not causal, alcohol use was linked to younger males, specific methods, relationship issues, and less help-seeking in suicide cases.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Public Health
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Understanding factors contributing to suicide is crucial for prevention.
- The role of alcohol consumption in suicidal behavior requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between alcohol consumption prior to suicide and the act of suicide.
- To identify characteristics of individuals who consumed alcohol before suicide.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective survey of a three-year cohort of suicides in Western Australia (1986-1988).
- Analysis of coroner's records for 515 consecutive suicides.
- Data collected included blood alcohol levels, drug use, psychiatric history, life events, and suicide method.
Main Results:
- 35.8% of suicide cases had a positive blood alcohol reading.
- Individuals drinking alcohol prior to suicide were younger, more likely male, and used carbon monoxide more frequently.
- Alcohol consumers were more likely to have relationship breakups and less likely to have sought professional help.
Conclusions:
- The study does not establish a causal link between alcohol consumption and suicide.
- Alcohol consumption may play a contributory role in the decision to commit suicide in a subset of cases.