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Death by suicide in Grampian 1974-1990
A Ramayya1, M Campbell, J S Callender
1Mental Health Division, Grampian Healthcare NHS Trust.
Health Bulletin
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Male suicide rates rose by 25% between 1974-1990, while female rates fell by 65%. Many individuals who died by suicide had contact with psychiatric services, highlighting a need for targeted interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Mental Health Services Research
Background:
- Suicide and undetermined deaths pose significant public health challenges.
- Understanding trends and service contact is crucial for prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine suicide and undetermined death rates in a specific health board area from 1974 to 1990.
- To analyze the patterns of contact between deceased individuals and mental health services.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of case records from psychiatric, clinical psychology, and general practices.
- Utilized data from the General Register Office for Scotland for death registrations.
Main Results:
- Male suicide rates increased by 25%, while female rates decreased by 65% during the study period.
- Undetermined death rates showed a slight decrease in both sexes.
- A significant proportion of suicides (46%) and undetermined deaths (41%) involved contact with psychiatric services.
Conclusions:
- The findings provide essential data for planning interventions to reduce national suicide rates.
- Highlights the importance of mental health service engagement in suicide prevention efforts.