Trends in suicide in Northern Ireland: 1922-1992

Journal/Book: Irish J Psychol Med. 1996; 13: Irish J Psychol Medicine, Brendans Hospital,, Rathdown Rd, Dublin 7, Ireland. Irish Inst Psychological Medicine Ltd. 9-12.

Abstract: Objective: The trends in suicide in Northern Ireland over a 70 year period were examined with respect to sex, age and method used, and then compared with rates of unemployment and homicide. Method: The records in the office of the registrar general in Belfast were examined to obtain data. Unemployment figures were obtained from the Department of Economic Development. Results: Suicide is increasing in Northern Ireland and particularly in young men (aged 34 and under). There is a relation to unemployment although it is not felt to be directly causal, Men prefer more violent methods although vehicle exhaust gas is popular. A large number of women still choose drowning. Conclusions: Despite all initiatives, the suicide rate is increasing in Northern Ireland, in common with many European countries, It represents a major health care issue. Measures of a social or political nature may have more effect than health care advances in reducing the rate of suicide.

Note: Article PH Mccrea, Arden Ctr, Scroggy Rd, Limavady BT49 0NS, Londonderry, North Ireland

Keyword(s): suicide; trends; Northern Ireland; EPIDEMIOLOGY; UNEMPLOYMENT; PARASUICIDE; RATES

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