Citation

Thoresen S, Mehlum L. Suicide Life Threat. Behav. 2006; 36(4): 432-442.

Affiliation

Norwegian Centre for Studies on Violence and Traumatic Stress, Ltd, Kirkeveien 166, Bygning 48 (Z), 0407 Oslo, Norway. siri.thoresen@nkvts.unirand.no

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, American Association of Suicidology, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1521/suli.2006.36.4.432

PMID

16978097

Abstract

To investigate risk factors for suicide in veterans of peacekeeping, 43 suicides and 41 fatal accidents in Norwegian peacekeepers (1978 to 1995) were compared in a psychological autopsy study. Mental health problems were the most important risk factor for suicide. Both living alone and the break-up of a love relationship contributed uniquely to suicide risk, even when controlling for mental health problems. No peacekeeping-related factor was associated with suicide. Preventive measures should focus on firearms control, improved detection systems for mental health problems in the military, and peer support through veterans' associations.

Language: en