A Follow-up Study of 53 Suicides Known to a Suicide Prevention Center

The operation of the Cleveland Suicide Prevention Center is reviewed, and 53 known suicides during the Center’s first four years of operation are discussed. A suicide rate of 288/100 000 suggests that persons contacting the Center represented a high risk group. Of the suicides, 57% were women, 26% initiated direct contact with the Center, and none recontacted the Center just prior to death. Some of the practical problems in evaluation and referral are discussed. 13 ref.