[Suicide among inpatients in Gaustad Hospital 1954-1991]

We present results from a retrospective study of 31 suicides committed during the years 1954-1991 among inpatients at Gaustad Hospital. There was a radical increase in the suicide rate during the period, an increase that was higher than expected from the increase among the general population. The patients suffered from serious psychopathological conditions. Hanging was found to be the most frequent method of suicide, reflecting that psychiatric inpatients use methods that are easily available. Changes in the routines for admission, discharge and treatment of patients are discussed as possible factors explaining the increase. Improved evaluation of risk of suicide, more active antipsychotic and antidepressive treatment and improved control when risk of suicide is assessed to be high are discussed as important prophylactic measures.