Methods of suicide in different psychiatric diagnostic groups

Abstract

Background An important element in suicide risk assessment is the evaluation of the intended suicide method. This study aimed to compare suicide methods in different psychiatric diagnostic groups in Taiwan. Methods A total of 12,391 adult suicide cases between 2000 and 2004, which were recorded in official death records, were linked to Taiwan's National Health Insurance data files. A descriptive study was conducted to compare methods of suicide across different psychiatric diagnostic groups. Results The proportion of jumping suicide was particularly high in cases with more severe psychopathology. Compared to suicide victims without any history of psychiatric disease, the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of jumping suicide among schizophrenic, bipolar, and major depressive patients were 3.1 (95% CI: 2.6–3.7), 2.2 (95% CI: 1.8–2.7), and 1.9 (95% CI: 1.6–2.2), respectively. Charcoal burning was less frequently used by those with a history of psychiatric diagnosis. Limitations It is difficult to determine the reliability and validity of the claim data. Information on non-fatal acts of self-harm is unavailable. Conclusions Suicide victims with different psychiatric diagnoses vary in their choice of suicide methods.