ABSTRACT
Suicide - a permanent solution to a temporary problem Suicide is alm ost invariably associated w ith m ental illness. 'The Health of the N ation 2000' am bitiously targets suicide prevention by aim ing for 15% reduction in prim ary care and 30% in psychiatry. Such goals m ay be im practicable in the time frame given bu t they do serve as a sobering incentive. It is well established that a high proportion of people w ho com m it suicide sought professional help shortly before their final act; one recent survey show ed that 42% of suicide cases consulted their GP w ithin the m onth preceding their death. These facts suggest that picking up suicidal ideation clinically m ay be a major factor in suicide prevention; at least the patient feels listened to and understood, and m ay hopefully be reassured of some appropriate intervention.
