Nine Suicide Pacts: a Clinical Study of a Consecutive Series 1974-93

9 suicide pacts were identified from the coroner’s records of 722 consecutive suicides in the Southampton & New Forest districts. 11 of the 18 people appeared to have been mentally ill at the time of death & 3 more had a history of mental illness. 5 had a significant medical history. It is concluded that mental disorder is common in those who enter suicide pacts (mainly depression with alcohol dependence rare). Motivations appear to be relief of mental disorder & pain. (4 refs.)