The aim of the study was to identify sociodemographic, clinical and service delivery risk factors for suicide in the population of service-users (SUs) and non-service users (NSUs) plus gender-related characteristics of suicidal behaviour; in a limited geographic region.

Data were collected on 68 cases of suicide (ICD-10 X60-X84) for residents on the Isle of Wight between January 2006 and December 2009.

Significantly (p=0.0006) more men than women (male/female ratio 3:1) died by suicide. Relatively (p=0.07) more women (56.2%) than men (32.7%), and significantly more (p=0.05) SUs (45.3%) than NSUs (13.3%) were unemployed. Significantly more (p=0.0006) SUs (64%) than NSUs (20%) had a history of suicide and relatively (p=0.06) more (50.9%) SUs than NSUs (20%) had attended the A & E prior to their death. 69% had an adverse life event within a year prior to their suicide. Depression was significantly (p=0.008) more frequent in women (66.6%) than men (23.7%). Suicide by hanging was the commonest cause acounting for death of 71% of men and 50% of women. 57.3% of deaths occurred at their place of residence and 75% of on weekdays. 50% of women died in autumn, compared to 28.8% of men. There were three inpatient deaths (4.4%). Relatively (p=0.08) more women (56.2%) than men (32.7%) have contactacted serivces before their death.

80% suicides were conducted by people suffering from a mental disorder. Men are at a significant risk of suicide. Anxiety disorders in men and depression in women are the most common mental disorders.