Citation

Chandrasekaran R, Gnanaselane J. Hong Kong J. Psychiatry 2008; 18(4): 131-135.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Little is known about the risk factors that differentiate individuals who make subsequent suicide attempts after surviving their first attempt. This study investigated the predictors of repeat suicidal attempts in first-ever attempters. Participants and Methods: Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 348 subjects who were hospitalised following their first-ever suicide attempt. Information on socio-demographic, clinical, and psychosocial variables related to the suicide attempt was collected. In 293 patients, a follow-up interview was completed at the end of 2 years. Factors associated with repeat suicidal attempts were evaluated.

RESULTS: The repetition rate at the end of 2 years was 23%. Repeat suicide attempters showed higher levels of baseline depression, hopelessness, and suicidal intent. They also had elevated stress scores during the 12 months prior to the attempt and poorer adaptive functioning. The presence of major depression and social maladaptation had a significant predictive value for repeat attempts in first-ever attempters.

CONCLUSIONS: Treatment of depression in first-ever attempters should be optimised to minimise the risk of future attempts. © 2008 Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists.

Language: en

Keywords

Risk factors; adult; human; female; male; Depressive disorder; suicidal ideation; depression; stress; scoring system; suicide attempt; interview; major depression; prediction; Recurrence; risk factor; hopelessness; article; major clinical study; social adaptation; social psychology; adaptive behavior; follow up; psychosocial care; Suicide, attempted; prospective study; maladjustment; risk reduction; Follow-up studies; diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders; observational study; international classification of diseases