Study on risk factors in adolescents admitted with deliberate self-harm in Tata main hospital, Jamshedpur

BACKGROUND: Suicide ranks as the second cause of death worldwide among 15–19 years olds, with at least one lakh adolescents dying by suicide every year. Therefore, research on understanding the dynamics of suicide attempts in adolescents can be used as a means of suicide prevention. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to understand the psychological, social, and personality factors contributing to deliberate self-harm/suicide attempt in patients of adolescent age group admitted to Tata Main Hospital, Jamshedpur. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was carried out at Tata Main Hospital Jamshedpur. Consecutive suicide attempters up to the age of 19 years referred from medical or surgical wards over a period of 1 year are taken up for study. Data were collected on socio-demographic sheet and specific pro forma to collect various risk factors contributing to this behavior specifically designed for this study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test. RESULTS: Majority of the suicide attempters were females of younger age, lower-middle income status, urban background, and students. Two-third (68%) of the attempter had at least one psychiatric diagnosis. Nearly 75% of the suicide attempts were committed after a precipitating factor. The risk factors associated with suicide attempts in included increased family conflicts, peer-interpersonal problems, perceived humiliations and personality traits. CONCLUSION: The early identification and treatment of vulnerable populations with risk factors for suicide across the lifespan will help in planning and implementing strategies for prevention.