Suicide by Jumping and Accessibility of Bridges: Results From a National Survey in Switzerland

This study compared suicide data from Swiss regions with & without suicide bridges & estimated the effects on method & site substitution if bridges were to be secured. Suicide data for the years 1990-2003 were colleced. An analysis of regions with high rates of bridge suicides compared to regions with low rates revealed only about one-third of individuals would be expected to jump from buildings or other structures if no bridge was available. Results suggest no method substitution for women. Results support the notion that securing bridges may save lives. (26 refs.)