Six case histories of patients with tinnitus are reported. 5 of these patients died by suicide & one was killed by his son. The role of tinnitus as a factor leading to their deaths is discussed, & potential risk factors for suicide, in terms of demographic features, associated mental illness, & tinnitus parameters, are also considered. Patients were mainly working class, male, living alone, & had a history of previous suicide threats or attempts. Their tinnitus was generally of recent onset, pulsatile, & in their left ear. (10 refs.)