Continued monitoring of the rates for treated self-poisoning in Hobart over a five year period has revealed a marked increase in this behaviour. Attention is drawn to the load this places on medical and psychiatric services. The present study has shown that the rise in self-poisoning was statistically significant among young males and females of most age-groups. This rise was particularly notable in senior secondary schoolgirls. In terms of geographical distribution, significant increases were observed in the economically depressed central areas of Hobart and in satellite towns. The need for greater emphasis on primary prevention is discussed.
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