[Attempted suicide among Norwegian soldiers. A retrospective study].

Suicidal behaviour is a rapidly increasing health problem among young men, and represents a major challenge to the Armed Forces. A retrospective investigation of suicide attempts among male conscripts showed that even though the overall incidence is lower than in civilian settings it is high among the basic trainees. The suicide-attempting soldier often has a troublesome background, with psychiatric disorders and drug or alcohol abuse. Many have personality disorders, and a subgroup displays repeated self-destructive behaviour. Most soldiers employ less life-threatening self-destructive methods and attempt the suicide on military premises. Many are influenced by alcohol. Following the suicide attempt most soldiers are quickly discharged from service. The paper discusses various aspects of self-destructive behaviour among soldiers and possible preventive measures.