A comparison of rate and methods of probable suicide for 2 years pre and post the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Abstract

Objectives: To examine and compare rates and methods of probable suicide in a Western region of Ireland during a 24 month period since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic compared with a similar period immediately prior to the pandemic onset.

Methods: Post-mortem reports between March 1^st 2018 and February 29^th 2020 were reviewed and compared with data from March 1^st 2020 to February 28^th 2022. Relevant demographic data, rates and methods of probable suicide and lifetime engagement with mental health services were compared across the two time points.

Results: Identical rates of probable suicide (85 individuals at both time points) were demonstrated with no difference evident in the utilisation of violent compared to non-violent methods.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that despite previous reports of increased rates of self-harm and some evidence of increased mental distress since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, no change in rates of or methods employed by individuals who died by probable suicide were evident in this geographical region.