Suicide: age and deprivation matter in Scotland

Rates of suicide between 1981 and 2001 in Scotland have risen considerably among people aged 15-45 but are decreasing in those aged over 45. Examining changes in suicide rates in this 20 year period, Boyle and colleagues (p 175) found that suicide rates among older adults declined from 23 per 100 000 to 17 per 100 000 but rose from 15 per 100 000 to 24 per 100 000 among young adults. They particularly emphasise the relative rise in suicide among young people in poor areas.

Credit: PETER MARLOW/MAGNUM