Suicide Mortality in Mental Retardation: a 35-Year Follow-Up Study

Suicide mortality among people with mental retardation over a period of 35 years was investigated. A nationwide, population-based cohort of 2369 people with mental retardation was followed-up from a representative sample of 9.4% of the population in Finland in 1962. Women with mental retardation had an equal suicide risk to Finnish women in general, while men had only one-third of the population risk. Risk factors for suicide were similar to those in the general population. Most suicide victims were hospitalized for comorbid mental disorders. Problems in adjustment to new circumstances need to be recognized. Appropriate & adequate treatment of comorbid depression is emphasized. (22 refs.)