Differences in irish urban and rural suicide rates, 1976–1994

The recent rise in the Irish suicide rate is a male phenomenon. The present paper calculates urban and rural suicide rates for Ireland and looks at some possible explanatory variables for the differences observed. Irish suicide and undetermined death rates, age-adjusted to the European Standard Population, are calculated for the years 1976 to 1994 to determine if there are any discernible trends between urban and rural areas. Possible associated factors are then examined, including the distribution of psychiatric illness using the National Psychiatric In-Patient Reporting Scheme. Between 1980 and 1990, the Irish rural male suicide rate rose by 50% while there was no increase in the male urban rate. The most radical increases have occurred in the young and elderly rural males. A. t the start of the study period, the urban female suicide rate was higher than the rural rate but the two rates have been almost identical since 1985. Some factors associated with suicide were examined but failed to provide sufficient explanation for the difference in rates. Further research is needed to clarify the reasons for these differences and to monitor ongoing trends.