Citation

Fruehwald S, Frottier P, Matschnig T, Eher R. Eur. Psychiatry 2003; 18(4): 161-165.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/s0924-9338(03)00064-6

PMID

12814848

Abstract

PURPOSE: Suicide rates in correctional institutions have been increasing during the last decades. There has been little interest in whether suicidal ideation and intent has been documented by non-medical prison staff (reports of attempted suicide, suicide threats, self-harm), and whether these signs of suicidality had the consequence of adequate intervention efforts.
METHODS: The personal files of inmates who committed suicide in the 29 Austrian jails and prisons during the last 25 years (1975-1999) were included. We analysed personal characteristics, criminological data, circumstances of custody and information about psychiatric disorders and treatment.
RESULTS: Of a total of 250 suicides, 220 personal files were available and included. Suicide attempts were known in 50% of all suicides and 37% had expressed suicidality. In >20%, non-medical staff had documented signs of suicidality, but no further preventive action (e.g. referral to psychiatric care) had taken place.
CONCLUSION: Signs of suicidality play an important role in vulnerability profiles for jail and prison suicides and should have the minimal consequence of further psychiatric care.

Language: en

Keywords

Adult; Austria; Cause of Death; Comorbidity; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Incidence; Male; Mental Disorders; Middle Aged; Prisoners; Prisons; Referral and Consultation; Suicide; Suicide Prevention; Suicide, Attempted