Citation

Owens C, Lloyd KR, Campbell JC. Br. J. Gen. Pract. 2004; 54(501): 279-281.

Affiliation

Peninsula Medical School, Universities of Exeter and Plymouth, Wonford House, Dryden Road, Exeter EX2 5AF, UK.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Royal College of General Practitioners)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

15113495

PMCID

PMC1314853

Abstract

Previous research has suggested that progress towards suicide reduction targets may be achieved by improving the ability of general practitioners to recognise and treat mental illness. Using data from a study of suicide completers who were not in contact with specialist mental health services, we found that the rate of detection and treatment of mental health problems in primary care was high. The major barrier to receipt of care for mental health problems prior to suicide was non-consultation. The study also shows that detection and management in primary care does not necessarily result in prevention of suicide. Implications for public education, access to primary care services and the potential for suicide prevention are considered.

Language: en