SUICIDE IN SCOTTISH PRISONS, 1976-93

The demographic, logistical and psychiatric characteristics of 83 suic ides in Scottish custodial establishments between 1976 and 1993 were d escribed. Over much of this period the suicide rate in Scottish prison s showed an increase disproportionate to the rise in the overall priso n population. Compared with the general prison population, the mean ag e of the suicides in the sample was higher. Remand prisoners were over -represented in the suicide group when compared with the general priso n population on the basis of average daily population figures but not when comparisons were made using annual receptions. Prisoners serving sentences of over 18 months, particularly life, were overrepresented, as were prisoners charged with or convicted of violent or sexual crime s. Most fatal acts occurred between lock-up and reveille with hanging being by far the most common method of suicide. Extensive evidence of previous self-injury and psychiatric morbidity was found in the suicid e sample. The majority of deaths occurred less than 3 months from inca rceration with a smaller number occurring less than 24 hours after rec eption into prison. Of the latter group, the majority had an establish ed past history or diagnosis of alcohol and/or drug abuse.