The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of attempted suicide in Ankara in 1990. Data was collected from the emergency rooms of 9 hospitals & demographic variables were analyzed. Results show 1901 attempts, 650 males & 1251 females; an incidence higher than expected. Attempted suicide was more characteristic among the young & among females. The most common methods were drug overdose & self-poisoning. 60% of all subjects were treated & released without any further recommendations.