Suicidal Behaviour in Te Rau Hinengaro: the New Zealand Mental Health Survey

The prevalence & correlates of suicidal behaviour in the New Zealand population age 16+ is described. Data are from a nationally representative household survey done from October 2003-December 2004 in a sample of 12,992 participants. Lifetime prevalences were 15.7% for suicide ideation, 5.5% for suicide plan, & 4.5% for suicide attempt, & were consistently significantly higher in females than in males. Risks of making a suicide plan or attempt were associated with mental disorder & sociodemographic disadvantage. Most people with suicidal behaviours had not seen a health professional for mental health problems during the time that they were suicidal. (43 refs.)