STRATEGIC EVALUATION OF SUICIDE NOTES

Background and objectives: Suicide note is message left behind by a person who intends to commit suicide. Study of such suicide notes show the psyche of the patient and play important role in understanding reasons for suicide. Very few studies have concentrated on such suicide notes from Indian subcontinent. Aim of study was to evaluate such suicide notes with respect to mode of writing, to whom it is addressed and victim’s last wish. Methods: This prospective study was conducted among victims of hanging brought to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Medical College morgue, Bangalore during the period November 2010 to October 2012. Detailed information regarding the deceased and the circumstances of death was collected from the police and relatives. In some cases, this information was supplemented by either, visit to scene of occurrence or from the photographs of scene of occurrence Results: Out of 232 cases studied, suicide notes were found in 22 cases. Last wish was mentioned in fifteen cases. In thirteen cases suicide notes were addressed to the parents. One suicide note in the form of mail was reported. Conclusions: Suicide note is an important piece of evidence showing psyche of the patient. Due importance should be given at the site of crime for recovery of suicide note. Studies involving larger number of victims are required to have psychologica