The epidemiology of suicide and parasuicide

Abstract

Suicidal behavior constitutes a serious public and mental health problem. In many countries suicide ranks among the top 10 causes of death. In 1980 around the world an estimated 300,000 to 440,000 committed suicide. In addition, at least 10 times as many persons made a suicide attempt or deliberately harmed themselves seriously (both referred to as parasuicide). Yet, the real numbers are likely much greater. This paper analyzes recent trends in suicide and attempted suicide using data from official sources and special studies. The focus is on trends among adolescents and young adults (15-29 years of age) and on available research that might help in the explanation of these trends. It will be concluded that not only in sheer numbers, but also in terms of human suffering and economic terms, the phenomena of suicide and parasuicide is a public health problem of primordial importance, particularly among adolescents and young adults.

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