Windfuhr et al, 2013

This study aimed to investigate the impact of narrative conclusions on suicide statistics among 10–19-year-olds; and to identify the number and rate of suicide and accidental deaths, particularly in 10–14-year-olds.

Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) were used to calculate rates of suicide and accidental deaths for 10-14 and 15-19-year-olds. Trends in rates over time were investigated.

Between 2001 and 2010 suicide rates significantly decreased in young men aged 15–19 years old, which was not accounted for by changes to coroners’ coding practices (i.e., increase in narrative verdicts). Suicide rates among children and young people aged 10–14 years remain unchanged.

Although the number of suicides in 10–14-year-olds is small, they should be included in routinely available national statistics to help identify longitudinal trends and inform suicide prevention strategies.

Read the full paper:

• Suicide and accidental deaths in children and adolescents in England and Wales (Disease in Childhood)

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