[Suicide behind bars -- an international review].

OBJECTIVE

International surveys found an increase of mentally disordered individuals in correctional institutions. As a consequence, suicides and suicide rates in jails and prisons are increasing. Mental health services and criminal justice authorities have identified this problem, but there is a lack of knowledge concerning risk factors for inmate suicides and practicable prevention.

METHOD

A literature research was conducted through "medline" searching for studies addressing the problem of jail and/or prison suicide. Subsequently, results of relevant surveys were compared and depicted in several tables.

RESULTS

Suicide rates in correctional facilities significantly exceed those in the general male population. Suicide rates in custody have been increasing within the last decades. Pre-trial prisoners have the highest suicide risk within the total prison population. Long-term sentences, single-cell use, mental illness, substance abuse and a history of suicidality are associated with an increased suicide risk.

DISCUSSION

The impact of suicide prevention strategies and future directions of research in this high-risk setting are highlighted.