Citation

Goldney RD. Australas. Psychiatry 2000; 8(2): 142-146.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1046/j.1440-1665.2000.00250.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To review the findings of an Australian Coronial inquiry into suicide and homicide associated with mental illness and to compare those findings with a large UK report.

CONCLUSIONS: Similar findings emerged from both inquiries. These included recommendations in regard to the adequate documentation of illness; the recognition of the role of relatives and carers; the optimum use of health care legislation to ensure compliance with treatment; and an awareness of the availability of the newer 'atypical' anti-psychotic drugs. Such recommendations serve as a useful reminder of what good psychiatric practise should provide in contributing to a reduction in suicide and homicide by those with mental illness.

Language: en

Keywords

adult; Australia; caregiver; clinical article; clinical practice; comparative study; coroner; female; health care; homicide; human; law; male; medical documentation; mental disease; neuroleptic agent; patient compliance; relative; short survey; suicide; United Kingdom