Analysis of trends in adolescent suicides and accidental deaths in England and Wales, 1972–2011

James Redmore, Ruth R Kipping, Adam J W Trickey, Margaret T May, David Gunnell

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle (Academic Journal)peer-review

10 Citations (Scopus)
518 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background
Previous analyses of adolescent suicides in England and Wales have focused on short time-periods.

Aim
To investigate trends in suicide and accidental deaths in adolescents between 1972 and 2011.

Methods
Time trend analysis of rates of suicides and deaths from accidental poisoning and hanging in 10-19 year olds by age, gender and deprivation. Rate ratios were estimated for 1982-1991, 1992-2001 and 2002-2011 with 1972-1981 as comparator.

Results
Suicide rates have remained stable in 10-14 year olds, with strong evidence for a reduction in accidental deaths. In males aged 15-19, suicide rates peaked in 2001 before declining. Suicide by hanging is the most common method of suicide. Rates were higher in males and in 15-19 year olds living in more deprived areas.

Conclusions
Suicide rates in adolescents are at their lowest since the early 1970’s with no clear evidence that changes in coroners’ practices underlie this trend.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)327-333
Number of pages11
JournalBritish Journal of Psychiatry
Volume209
Issue number4
Early online date9 Jun 2016
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 3 Oct 2016

Research Groups and Themes

  • DECIPHer
  • SASH

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Analysis of trends in adolescent suicides and accidental deaths in England and Wales, 1972–2011'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this