Determining whether an overdose was intentional or accidental can be very complicated. Coroners must look at many factors. First, they must determine the cause of death. Was it natural, only in the presense of drugs? In this case, drugs are not a contributing factor. They also must look at the environment. If they were planning on committing suicide, there may be a letter. Are they and the room peaceful, as if they planned to die? Were they found lying in bed? Or did it look as if they died unexpectantly? Did they drop dead walking to the kitchen?
Coroners must also determine if they have a history of abuse. A history of abuse usually points towards an accidental overdose. Although suicide my overdose is rare, it does happen. Therefore, a coroner must also determine if they had a history of mental illness. They must investigate to determine whether they suffered from illnesses such as depression. They may also talk to family members and friends. This can be done to determine whether the victim's changed behaviors recently. If the victim began giving away personal items, then they may have been considering suicide.
The procedure to determine whether an overdose is accidental or intentional is difficult, and unique to every case.
http://content.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1996831,00.html
http://journeysthrugrief.wordpress.com/2012/11/23/overdose-or-suicide-moonen/
Sarah L.H
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