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Mental disorders and suicide in Northern Ireland
T Foster1, K Gillespie, R McClelland
1Department of Mental Health, Queen's University of Belfast.
Background:
The aim of this part of the Northern Ireland Suicide Study was to investigate the prevalence of DSM-III-R axis I (clinical syndrome) and axis II (personality) disorders among suicides (14 years and older) in Northern Ireland during a one-year period.
Method:
A psychological autopsy study based on a variety of documentary sources and interviews with bereaved informants and health care professionals.
Results:
Ninety per cent of suicides (106/118) had a current axis I and/or an axis II mental disorder. At least one current axis I disorder was diagnosed in 86% of suicides (102/118), and at least one axis II disorder was diagnosed in 44% (52/118). Suicides under 30 years (92% male) were less likely to have a current axis I disorder (68%; 26/38) than those 30 years and older (95%; 76/80). Psychiatric comorbidity was present in 55% of suicides (65/118). The time between the last contact with a health care professional and death was greater among suicides under 30 years and male suicides.
Conclusions:
Notwithstanding the aetiological complexity of suicide, the prevention, recognition and treatment of mental disorder will continue to play key roles in suicide prevention.