A Study of Coroner’s Records of Suicide in Young People, 1986-88 in Western Australia

Coroner’s records of 25 consecutive suicides aged 15-19 years & 43 aged 20-24 years were compared with 68 suicides aged 45-59 years to identify associated clinical & psychosocial factors. Compared with the 45-59 year group the following factors were significantly greater in (a) 15-19 years: personality/conduct disorders, unemployment & legal/disciplinary problems, & (b) 20-24 years: drug abuse & unemployment. Preventive implications of the findings are discussed. (49 refs.)