Presentations by Youth to Auckland Emergency Departments Following a Suicide Attempt

This study describes the population of European youth (15-24 years) presenting to Auckland emergency departments following attempted suicide & to identify factors associated with these presentations. A total of 212 cases occurred during the surveillance period, alcohol was present in 29% of cases. Attempts involving alcohol were more likely to occur on the weekend, occur among employed people & those not residing with family. Two groups of particular concern were identified: those who involved alcohol in their attempt & those who presented during the study period following multiple suicide attempts. (39 refs.)