Citation

Shamaila Ijaz H, Ijaz H. Medical Channel 2002; 8(1): 9-12.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Suicidal behavior [SB] or Parasuicide is on the increase in Pakistan as indicated by news media and increase in OPD cases hence it has a great importance as a Public Health Problem. Although there is no paucity of data about the pattern of SB in European Countries, in Pakistan, only few studies have been reported. The objective was to study this problem in local population. Socio-demographic characteristics and psychosocial events were recorded on a semi-structured questionnaire. Diagnosis for Psychiatric illness was made on the basis of ICD-10 classification of mental behavioral disorder. Patients attending Accident and Emergency Department of Jinnah Hospital attached to Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore were included in this study. Three hundred and ninety four consecutive subjects of SB attending the Accident and Emergency Department were enrolled for this study. Their age, sex, marital status, educational standards, socio-economic status, methods employed for suicidal behavior, psychiatric illness and various reasons for suicidal intents were recorded. Data was analyzed through Statistical Package of Social Sciences [SPSS] [8.0], overall differences were assessed using percentages and Chi-square test. Three hundred and eighty five patients were analyzed since nine subject refused interview on personal grounds. Majority [56 percent] was young and preponderance was of females [55 percent]. SB was common among single female [50.6 percent]. Seventy nine percent were graduate and less and 21 percent postgraduates and professionals. Lower social class was predominant [55 percent], followed by middle class [40 percent] and common mode applied was drug overdose [52 percent]. Relationship problems was the main reason [55 percent], other was financial difficulties [35 percent] and loss of objects or person [10 percent]. Majority [48 percent] had no psychiatric illness although 23 percent had depression 16 percent stress reaction and 8 percent had serious illness of schizophrenia and drug dependence. Suicidal behavior is on the increase. It is common in young age, predominantly seen in females [55 percent]. It indicates impulsiveness, unpredictability, and acute stress reaction. Preponderance of females show restrictions, less privileges and gender indiscrimination which is present in our community values. Majority had no psychiatric illness some had depression and few had schizophrenia. The suicidal behavior is under reported as it is a criminal offence and no facilities are available for psychiatric evaluation guidance for follow up

Language: en