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Suicide and ‘hidden suicide’: a comparison of rates in selected countries

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 88
Authors:
  • Snowdon J.
Summary:

Suicide rates of young Māori considerably exceeded those of young non-Māori in a review of rates of suicide and ‘hidden suicide’ in New Zealand, Australia, Ireland and Spain. Rates of suicide and ‘hidden suicide’ were calculated and compared using estimated population figures and online cause-of-death from 2014 to 2016. Rates of ‘hidden suicide’ were relatively low in all four countries. Suicide rates in New Zealand decreased in late life and peaks of youth suicide were attributed to high rates of Māori youth suicide.

Comment:
Common causes for death in young Māori men include suicide and road traffic crashes. I’ve often wondered if the latter included ‘hidden suicide’. We’ve done a lot to reduce death rates for the majority of health conditions in Aotearoa apart from two notable exceptions – diabetes and suicide. Do we need reminding that Māori rates for these are amongst the highest in the world?
Reference: Australas Psychiatry. 2020;28(4):378-382.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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