The effect of the 2004 tsuanmi on suicide rates in Sri Lanka were investigated. The number of suicides in the 2 years prior & 1 year after the tsunami were examined. Data from districts affected by the tsunami were compared with those from unaffected districts. No significant differences were found between the number of suicides before & following the disaster or between areas affected & unaffected by the tsunami. Worldwise, the impact of disasters upon suicide rates is variable. It is possible that the tsunami failed to have any profound effect on societal forces affecting suicide rates in Sri Lanka. (11 refs.)