Keith Hawton

My research focuses on suicide and self-harm.  I am interested in obtaining accurate information on the extent and nature of these problems over a long time period, studying their causes, and finding out what treatments and prevention measures are effective.  We have taken a particular interest in self-harm and suicide in young people.  Our research has benefitted from extensive national and international collaborations.

Both suicide and self-harm are extremely important public health issues and the focus of national strategies and guidance.  They have major impacts on families, friends and colleagues, and are costly for health and social services.  Identifying those at risk and implementing effective treatment and prevention measures are extremely challenging.

My group uses epidemiological and interview approaches to examine trends in self-harm and suicide and the main contributory factors.  This research has resulted in specific treatments and prevention initiatives, some of which we have shown to have major benefits in reducing risk of further self-harm and preventing suicides.

I am a National Institute for Health Research Senior Investigator, and have been presented with the following awards:

1995 Erwin Stengel Research Award
International Association for Suicide Prevention.

2001 Louis I. Dublin Award
American Association of Suicidology

2002 Research Award
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

2012 Life Achievement Award
for lifetime achievement and outstanding contribution in research, treatment and teaching in the field of suicidology and suicide prevention. Presented at the 14th European Symposium on Suicide and Suicidal Behaviour, Tel Aviv, Israel.

2013 Morselli Medal
awarded by the International Academy for Suicide Research for outstanding and enduring achievements in the science and art of suicide prevention.