Suicide by drowning in the bath

Abstract

A series of 14 cases of suicide by drowning in the bath in the Bristol area, England between 1974 and 1996 is presented. There were six males and eight females with a mean age of 66 years. The majority were married and lived with their spouse or another relative. Most drowned at home, face down, fully clothed. Six cases had evidence of concomitant alcohol or substance use. Seven cases had a past psychiatric history and a history of previous deliberate self-harm. Issues concerning prevention are discussed.