Batt O'Keeffe
Question:89 Mr. B. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health the steps, if any, that are being taken to investigate a report (details supplied) on the significant rise in the rate of Irish males suicides. [3337/95]
Written Answers. - Rate of Irish Male Suicides.
Limerick East): I am not aware of the specific report referred to by the Deputy. However, the numbers of reported suicides and parasuicides, that is attempted suicides, have increased over the past 20 years. The number of reported deaths for 1993 was 357, of which 291 were men. From figures released by the Central Statistics Office for the first half of 1994, it would appear that there may have been a decline in the numbers of suicides, but no definite conclusions can be drawn until annual figures are available.
The factors giving rise to suicide in society have been the subject of debate for many years. Changes in the fabric of society, depresion and social isolation are all factors which can contribute to individual distress.
Investigation and detailed research into the causes of suicides has not been easy at national or international level. In the past there has been an understandable reluctance to collect accurate data on the frequency and pattern of suicide. It is clear, however, that reliable information on the occurrence of suicidal behaviour is essential if help is to be made available to those considered to be at risk of suicide.
In recognition of the need for further research on the factors which lead people to take their own lives and development of the most effective way of intervening to prevent premature loss of life, my Department is contributing towards the costs of a pilot project in Cork, carried out by staff of the Southern Health Board on parasuicide. The aim of this project is to reduce the occurrence of parasuicide and to develop intervention skills which may be applied more widely.
My Department also provided financial support towards the cost of the Fifth European Symposium on Suicide and Self-poisoning, which took place in University College Cork from 31 August to 3 September 1994. This symposium was attended by researchers from all over Europe, working towards a better understanding of suicide and suicidal behaviour.
Along with research and development it is also important to look at the services which are already in place, to look at ways of improving and making services more accessible and user friendly. I am glad to say that the development of psychiatric services in line with the aims of Planning for the Future— has led to a greater level of understanding and public tolerance of psychiatric illness.
The World Health Organisation has recommended action to reverse the rising trend in suicide by the year 2,000. It highlights the importance of early detection and treatment for depression, alcoholism and schizophrenia. It suggests the need for improvements in the underlying societal factors that put a strain on the individual, such as family stress, social isolation of elderly people living alone and failure at school. It emphasises the need to develop the individual's ability to cope with events of life and provide a better network of social support.
The ability of people to cope with life is a crucial factor in the prevention and management of mental illness. Health boards are already involved in a number of ways in promoting better coping skills through parenting programmes, preschool playgroups, life skills education in schools, alcohol and drug awareness programmes and social support for elderly people living alone. The Health StrategyShaping a Healthier Future recognises the importance of health promotion, including the promotion of mental health. Over the next four years the health services will continue to support and provide programmes to promote mental health.