A Study on Deliberate Self-Harm by Poisoning and Associated Risk Factors at Batticaloa Teaching Hospital.

BACKGROUND

Deliberate self-harm (DSH) by poisoning is a significant public health concern worldwide. This study aimed to analyze the demographic, socioeconomic, and psychological factors contributing to self-harm by poisoning in patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 101 patients admitted to the hospital for poisoning-related self-harm. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire. Variables such as age, gender, educational background, employment status, income levels, substance abuse history, type of poisons used, sources of knowledge about self-harm methods, immediate stressors, and other few possible factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

The majority of patients, 55 (54.5%), were between the ages of 18 and 29. Fifty-five women (54.5%) slightly outnumbered 46 men (45.5%). More than half of the included patients had an educational background of up to ordinary level exam, while 58 were unemployed (57.4%), including dependents. Lower income levels were associated with higher rates of self-harm. Substance abuse, particularly alcohol, was prevalent in 34 (33.7%) of cases. The most commonly used poison was yellow oleander, reported in 38 (37.6%) of cases. The study also found that a majority, 53 (52.5%), learned about self-harm methods through community engagement. Immediate stressors, including arguments with parents, 29 (28.7%), and conflicts with spouses, 19 (18.8%), were significant triggers. Most patients, 76 (75.2%), were admitted to the hospital within six hours of poisoning. Half of the patients, 50 (50%), reported that immediate stressors directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced their decision to self-harm. Regarding patient outcomes, the study found that nearly all patients, 100 (99%), were successfully discharged from the hospital after treatment.

CONCLUSION

This study provides valuable insights into the factors contributing to DSH by poisoning in a Sri Lankan context. Targeted interventions addressing the identified risk factors, along with broader public health strategies, are essential to reduce the incidence of self-harm.