Suicide - Restricting The Means Lowers Incidence, Community Acceptance And Support Important

Date: Jun-25-2012In a study published in The Lancet, researchers examine evidence for means restriction in preventing suicides.

Professor Paul Yip of the Center for Suicide Research and Prevention, University of Hong Kong, China and his team, state that although it is difficult to restrict some suicide methods, such as hanging, means restriction continues to be a successful method to lower suicide rates.

Individuals who attempt to commit suicide usually choose a method that is readily available to them. According to the researchers, restricting these methods can considerably reduce suicide rates.

Professor Yip said:

"The common perception is that if somebody wishes to die by suicide, they will do so by whichever means are available to them. However, contrary to these widely-held beliefs, there is a growing body of research to suggest that restricting access to the most lethal means of suicide has a significant effect in reducing suicide rates."

Suicide rates in Sri Lanka decreased by 50% between 1995 and 2005 after the country banned lethal pesticides. However, the researchers note that communities can often be resistant to means restrictions as they pose considerable inconvenience to non-suicidal people.
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Professor Yip explained:

"Appropriate media coverage and community endorsement could lead to a greater acceptance of means restriction. Even for suicide methods that aren't easily restrictable, concerted community action in this area can be important in raising awareness of the problem."

Written By Grace Rattue

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