Major demographic, social and economic factors associated to suicide ratesin Latvia 1980-48

Objective: The aim of this study is to analyse the dynamics of suicide rate s in Latvia 1980-98, when dramatic social and economical changes took place . Special attention is given to demographic risk groups and major socioecon omic correlates influencing the dynamics of suicide rates. Method: Descriptive statistics of suicide rates and major social and econom ical correlates. Results: During 1980-98 there were rapid swings of suicide rates. The incre ase was generated mainly by males reaching a maximum of 72 per 100 000 popu lation in 1993. The sudden drop in gross domestic product, the rapid increa se in first-time alcohol psychosis and the percentage of people unemployed did not correspond strictly with the dynamics of suicide rates. Conclusion: Demographic and socioeconomic factors could not explain suffici ently the rapid changes in suicide rates in Latvia during the years 1980-98 ; psychological factors also have to be considered.