Attributes of Patients with Suicide Attempts Seen At the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital within a Year: A Case Series

Abstract

Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide. The rates of suicide attempts are on the rise especially in Nigeria and other developing countries. Youths are mostly affected and this presents a potential danger to national economy and well being. Unfortunately, the exact magnitude of these problems in Nigeria is unknown due to scanty literature. This underscores the need for further research. We present 5 case reports of patients with suicide attempts who were managed at the NDUTH within the period of one year. Our aim was to identify factors that are common among these patients and which could be highly associated with their suicidal behaviors. More so, to compare these factors with existing literature and to highlight treatment given and outcomes. Depression, dysfunctional family settings and financial/ relationship difficulties are common associated factors leading to frustration and suicide attempts. There is need for continuous health education and effective primary health care system to improve prevention of suicidal behaviors.