Depression, Depressiveness and Suicide: Report of the Superior Health Council (SHC No. 8108)

This report aims at improving the understanding of depression, depressiveness, & suicide in Belgium. Several areas are proposed in which to focus first & in which it would be useful to develop new models or optimize the facilities currently being used. Epidemiological data is provided & general observations are made about risk & protective factors, mental disorders, attempted suicide & follow-up care, access to means, the role of health care professionals, the bereaved, & the media. The next section of the report reviews actions already taken in Belgium, & the last section makes recommendations & suggests actions to promote public health.