Suicide in Young People: Study of 174 Cases, Aged Under 25 Years, Based on Coroners’ and Medical Records

The authors investigated the characteristics of a series of consecutive suicides in young people under 25 years of age by studying coroners’ inquest notes, general practitioners’ records & psychiatric case notes of 174 individuals who died by suicide. Hanging & carbon monoxide poisoning were the most freqent methods. Previous self-harm had occurred in 44.8%, 80% of these having self-harmed within the previous year. Only 22.4% of individuals were in the care of psychiatric services. Further findings & implications are discussed. (25 refs)