Title: A Study of Recent Stressful Life Events in Attempted Suicide
Authors: Dr Jayaraman S, Dr Asokkumar M, Dr Gandhibabu R
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v8i10.49
Abstract
There is an increase in rate of suicide in the past decades, which has become a burden to the family members and the society. So, it is the need of the hour to know the complete knowledge about the reason behind the suicide attempt. This study intends to study the recent stressful life event that has led the person to attempt for suicide. For this, 90 suicide attempters admitted in Rajah Muthiah Medical College Hospital is assessed with self-innovative proforma. Underlying psychiatric illness and substance abuse were also studied.
Results: Out of 90 subjects 23 (25.6%) had conflict with family members, 22 (24.4%) had interpersonal conflict with spouse and alcohol related issues in 13 (14.4%). Break up with friend and financial crisis were seen in 9 (10.0%) each. Other than that, physical illness in 4 (4.4%), education related issues in 3 (3.3%), loss of dear ones in 2 (2.2%) and other reasons in 5 (5.6%). Out of 90 subjects 70 (77.8%) has adjustment disorder, 16 (17.8%) has depressive disorders and 4 (4.4%) has bipolar affective illness. Out of 90 subjects 34 (37.8%) has alcohol dependent syndrome as comorbid illness.
Conclusion: With or without the major psychiatric illness and problem drinking of alcohol as the baseline problem, the recent stressful life event makes the person progress from suicidal ideation to suicide attempt. Alcohol plays a direct or indirect ( conflict with spouse / family members) role as major recent stressful life event. The future strategies for prevention of suicide should take these issues.
Keywords: suicide attempt, stress, life event.
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