MENTAL-DISORDERS AND SUICIDE IN NORTHERN-IRELAND

Background The aim of this part of the Northern Ireland Suicide Study was to investigate the prevalence of DSM-III-R axis I (clinical syndro me) and axis II (personality) disorders among suicides (14 years and o lder) in Northern Ireland during a one-year period. Method A psycholog ical autopsy study based on a variety of documentary sources and inter views with bereaved informants and health care professionals. Results Ninety percent of suicides (106/118) had a current axis I and/or an ax is II mental disorder. At least one current axis I disorder was diagno sed in 86% of suicides (102/118), and at least one axis II disorder wa s diagnosed in 44% (52/118). Suicides under 30 years (92% male) were l ess likely to have a current axis I disorder (68%; 26/ 38) than those 30 years and older (95%; 76/80). Psychiatric comorbidity was present i n 55% of suicides (65/118). The time between the last contact with a h ealth 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 me ntal disorder will continue to play key roles in suicide prevention.