Relationship Between Alcohol Consumption and Attempted Suicide Morbidity Rates in Perth, Western Australia, 1968-1984

Related consumption of beer, wine, spirits & absolute alcohol per adult (age >= 15 yrs) for the period 1968-84 to the attempted suicide morbidity rates in Perth. Both males & females aged 15-39 yrs, during the years of highest spirits consumption, showed the highest rates for attempted suicide. The effect of a rapidly rising blood alcohol level, together with a preselection factor as to the personal characteristics of persons who consumed higher alcohol content drinks may explain the results.