Suicides among Draftees: Biphasic Occurrence of Suicide during Military Service

Abstract

We analyzed all suicides among draftees during the 10-year period 1981-1990. The distribution of 50 suicides followed a bimodal curve with the first peak occurring 20-60 days from the beginning of the military service and the second peak during the early specialization training. Suicides committed during the basic training period were characterized by the absence of preceding alcohol intoxication, which was significantly more often seen in the suicides committed later during service. Most of the cases had been in contact with the medical personnel a short time before suicide. We discuss preventive measures, such as health education directed to both draftees themselves and the medical personnel.