PSYCHIATRIC ILLNESS IN SUICIDE ATTEMPTERS

Sample consisted of a series of 100 cases of attempted suicide who were hospitalized in medical or psychiatric wards of the two hospitals of Lucknow city during a period of two years. The study revealed about 80% subjects were in the age range of 15-34 years. Psychiatric disorders were observed in 62% of these subjects. 58% subjects had shown clinical features of abnormal personalities, usually of schizoid, hysterical or passive-aggressive type. Socio-demographic variables associated with self-destructive impulse were investigated. The enquiry also incorporates certain clinical impressions about 61% subjects who were followed-up for a period of two years. Two of the attempters committed suicide during the follow-up.