The influence of common risk factors for the patient with attempted suicide hospitalized at the teaching hospital, Batticaloa

Abstract

Suicidal behavior has increased since the onset of the global recession, a trend that may have long-term health and social implications. A high suicide rate in any society is an index of social disorganization and the awareness of the seriousness of suicide in our society would not be overlooked. Aim of this study was to assess the common risk factors for the patients with attempted suicide hospitalized at the Teaching Hospital, Batticaloa. A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted using semi-structured interviewer administered questionnaire involving a convenience sampling of 100 suicidal attempters. Of the respondents, conflict with others was the most common risk factor (75%) for attempted suicide with significant associations with educational status, marital status and age range (P < 0.05). Other risk factors such as social and emotional related issues, financial related problems, and health related problems were found 13%, 6% and 6% respectively. Frequent mode of attempting suicide was with Yellow Oleander poisoning (30%). Effective suicide preventive and control measures need to be taken in the form of early identification of suicide-prone individuals. Prevention efforts should focus on planned attempts because of the rapid onset and unpredictability of unplanned attempts.