Citation

Blenkiron P, Milnes D. Int. J. Psychiatry Clin. Prac. 2003; 7(1): 27-32.

Affiliation

Department of Adult Psychiatry, Academic Department of Psychiatry Bootham Park Hospital, University of Leeds York.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13651500310001031

PMID

24937238

Abstract

BACKGROUND The appropriateness of psychiatric management decisions following an episode of deliberate self-harm is under-researched. AIM To determine whether the offer of follow-up or psychiatric admission by psychiatric doctors is related to known predictors of repetition of self-harm or completed suicide, and recognition of a depressive disorder.

METHODS Prospective survey of 158 adult self-harm referrals from the general hospital.

RESULTS Offer of aftercare was significantly associated with a definite wish to die at the time of the attempt (P<0.001), Beck's Suicide Intent score (P=0.001), Beck's Hopelessness score (P=0.001), age (P<0.01) and an ICD-10 diagnosis of depression (P<0.001). Psychiatric admission was more likely for men (P=0.01) and accommodation problems (P=0.04) and less likely for relationship problems (P=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS Psychiatrists are selectively admitting or following up patients from established high-risk groups. Given the limitations of suicide prevention and mental health resources, their management is appropriate.

Language: en