A retrospective chart review of blacks suicide attempters (17 males; 39 females) was completed to describe the sample in comparison to other studies & to develop prevention strategies. Differences between males & females were: females were younger; 54% had made prior attempts; had diagnosis of affective disorder (33%) or reactive depression (31%); 76% of males had prior psychiatric history & 59% had a psychotic diagnosis. Impulsivity & psychosis, appeared to precipitae crisis situations. (NBB)