Characteristics of attempted suicide patients presenting to Chiang Rai Prachanukroh hospital during 2012-2016

Abstract

Objective Suicide attempts represent a crucial problem for public health services. The aim of this study was to determine the demographic and characteristics of patients with attempted suicide presenting to Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital. Methods A cross-sectional, retrospective study was conducted including all episodes of attempted suicide attending the emergency department of the hospital from January 2012 to December 2016. Data was collected from the hospital information system, patient medical records, self-harm surveillance registration forms, counselling record forms and death certificates. Results A total of 1,376 suicide attempt presentations were made to the emergency department by 1,339 individuals. 619 cases were population from capital district (amphoe mueang) of Chiang Rai and 757 cases were referred from other hospitals. The mortality rate of study participants was 13.1%, with 116 death (64.4%) from paraquat ingestion. Analysis of cases within the capital district revealed the mean age of 30.6 years (SD 14.6) and the largest numbers by age groups were 15-24 year-old (40.7%). The female-to-male ratio was 1.5:1. The most common method used in female was drug overdose (47.2%), mainly with paracetamol, whereas men more commonly ingested pesticides (28.2%). Men had higher rates of hospital admission and mortality than women. 28.2% of patients suffered from adjustment disorder and 13.1% of them were diagnosed with depressive disorders. The most frequently reported reason for attempting suicide was family/interpersonal problems (63%). Conclusion Suicide attempts were prevalent in adolescents aged 15-24 years. The findings suggest a link with impulsivity together with family and relationship problems. Positive coping skills, good social relationships and support for these vulnerable individuals should be promoted.