The limitations of official suicide statistics

Abstract

Background: This study explored some of the problems associated with current procedures for the ascertainment of suicide.

Method: A sample of 242 deaths which were known to have been self-inflicted was followed up through the coroners' courts where causes of death were legally established.

Results: Verdicts other than suicide were returned on half of the men, and on one-quarter of the women.

Conclusions: For suicide statistics to become valid indicators of suicide rates it might be more appropriate to apply the civil, rather than the criminal, standard of proof during inquest proceedings.