Suicide in Scotland

Researchers in Scotland have found out that suicide rate in Scotland is far higher than in other parts of the UK. Between 2000 and 2006 suicide rates were 79 % higher than in England and for young people even twice as high. How come? Just recently researchers studied the data of the causes which lead to suicide. They report it to be likely that the way patients and doctors coop with mental illness causes a higher rate of suicide. Instead of psychosocial interventions doctors in Scotland tend more easily to prescribe medication for anxiety or depression. However, thanks to action taken by the Scottish government, suicide rates have already started decreasing.

I think it is horrible that people in Scotland have not enough access to professional support while they are suffering from psychological problems. Especially, as it is proven by scientific research that this leads to more suicide among (young) people. Fortunately, the Scottish government is working on a better quality of psychological services for their inhabitants. Besides improving the quality of mental health services, the government also takes it responsibility to increase the amount of professional staff, who can offer a proper treatment to people coping with mental illnesses.

Call for action to tackle 'Scottish effect' on suicide rates / BBC news 10 June 2012 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-edinburgh-east-fife-18374755