Risk of self-inflicted violence: A presage of tragedy, an opportunity for prevention

Abstract

In Brazil, more than 30 self-inflicted deaths per day were recorded in 2012, with an estimated ten to 20 times the number of suicide attempts, which requires intersectoral strategies to prevent new cases and follow risk groups. The objective of this study was to analyze the association of factors considered at risk with the suicide attempt in people attended at a referral hospital in the northern region of Ceará using the population-based case-control method. 153 cases and 153 controls admitted between August 2013 and August 2015 matched by sex, age and origin were included. The data collection was done through an own form and the information processed by SPSS. In the sample of cases young adults prevailed without significant difference by sex. Exogenous Intoxication and motivations for love and family conflict were highlighted as a method. Leisure proved protective. The risk factors were 'Attempted suicide prior', 'be carrying some mental disorder', 'family history of self-injurious behavior' and 'drug abuse'. Many of the controls reported suicidal ideation at some point in their lives. Screening is recommended from the most striking predictors and awareness-raising for notification.