Synchronized Annual Rhythms in Violent Suicide Rate, Ambient Temperature and the Light-Dark Span

The relationships between weekly number of suicides & homicides in Belgium during 1979-1987, & various climatic measurements were investigated. Higher ambient temperature & an increase in air temperature in the previous few weeks were the most significant climatic predictors of the violent suicide rate. No significant time-relationships between nonviolent suicide or homicide & any of the weather variables were found. (31 refs.)