Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of hospitalized patients after suicide attempt: a twenty-year retrospective study.

AIM

To determine the frequency and distribution of suicide attempts relating to the manner of execution and other demographic an clinical characteristics, as well as to point to possible risk factors.

METHODS

A retrospective anamnestic study was conducted covering a twenty-year period (1990 to 2010) which included 715 patients (310 males and 405 females), who were hospitalized and treated at the Psychiatric Clinic of the Clinical Center in Kragujevac following a suicide attempt.

RESULTS

The incidence rate of suicide attempts was 19.5 per 100,000 citizens. The number of suicide attempts was found to be greater in females, 405 (56.5%). The greatest number of individuals was younger (25 to 34 years of age), 149 (20.9%) and the average age of the population attempting suicide was 42.6 years. The predominant mental disorder preceding the suicide attempt was depression, 346 (48.4%). The method most frequently used in the attempt was poisoning in both genders, 395 (55.3%) often by benzodiazepine overdose. The greatest number of suicide attempts occurs in spring and summer, 400 (over 50%).

CONCLUSION

An increased number of hospitalizations due to suicide attempts was noted, therefore, special attention should be paid to detection and treatment of depression disorders and patients who have attempted suicide repeatedly.