Citation

Zanus C, Battistutta S, Montico M, Cremaschi S, Carrozzi M. Med. Bambino 2010; 29(10): 645-653.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, l'Associazione Culturale Pediatri, Publisher Edifarm)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Background - Deliberate self-harm and suicide attempts are recognised as a growing health problem in adolescence. Nevertheless, epidemiological studies show a considerable variability in rates due to the difficulties in defining and recognizing suicidal behaviours.

OBJECTIVEs - The present study aims at estimating the rate of self-harm and suicide attempts among adolescents in Friuli Venezia Giulia Region (Italy) and describing the characteristics of suicidal behaviours, in order to identify adequate strategies of intervention.

MATERIALS AND METHODS - We considered all the adolescents (aged from 11 to 18) admitted to the Emergency Units of Friuli Venezia Giulia Region during 2005-2006. At first, a keyword selection had been carried out on an electronic data base. Afterwards, a more detailed analysis was performed, by reviewing each original medical report of the selected cases.

RESULTS - 120 adolescents who self-harmed and/or attempted suicide have been identified (rate of prevalence: 78/100,000 in 2005; 88/100,000 in 2006). Drug poisoning was the most frequent method. As far as the outcome is concerned, the study revealed that a specific neuropsychiatric engagement in ongoing treatment was rarely activated (9%).

CONCLUSIONS - This study demonstrates and underlines the importance of detecting the right procedures to identify and manage suicidal behaviours efficiently. To this end, we propose to create a regional data base by means of an electronic schedule able to help the medical staff of emergency services collect the data and evaluate the different cases. This instrument will facilitate the communication with the other Emergency Units of the Region.

Language: it

Keywords

adolescent; adult; human; Adolescence; prevalence; Suicide attempt; Self-harm; Italy; suicide attempt; suicidal behavior; neuropsychiatry; article; major clinical study; drug intoxication; emergency ward; Emergency unit