Suicide in England in the COVID-19 pandemic: Early observational data from real time surveillance.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There have been concerns that the COVID-19 pandemic may lead to an increase in suicide. The coronial system in England is not suitable for timely monitoring of suicide because of the delay of several months before inquests are held.

Methods

We used data from established systems of "real time surveillance" (RTS) of suspected suicides, in areas covering a total population of around 13 million, to test the hypothesis that the suicide rate rose after the first national lockdown began in England.

Findings

The number of suicides in April-October 2020, after the first lockdown began, was 121•3 per month, compared to 125•7 per month in January-March 2020 (-4%; 95% CI-19% to 13%, p = 0•59). Incidence rate ratios did not show a significant rise in individual m

SUBMITTER: Appleby L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8454726 | biostudies-literature | 2021 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature