Frecuencia de autolesiones y características clínicas asociadas en adolescentes que acudieron a un hospital psiquiátrico infantil

Abstract

Introduction: Although studies of self-harm in adolescents have pointed to psychopathology as a risk factor, the information on the phenomenon in clinical population of Mexican adolescents is scarce. Methods: This study examined demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as types, frequency and reasons for self-harm in 556 adolescents attending a child psychiatric hospital from 2005 to 2011 through record review. Results: High frequencies of female gender, low socioeconomic status, family violence and sexual abuse history were found. The most common diagnoses were affective disorders, conduct disorders and substance abuse. Self-cutting was the most used method and the main reasons for self-harm included low frustration tolerance, attention seek, and symptoms of anxiety and mood disorders. An increase in cases was observed over time, particularly in patients with mood disorders and/or substance abuse. Conclusions: Self-harm in adolescents with psychopathology has increased and is frequently associated with depressive and conduct disorders. It is important to determine the presence of self-harm in the assessment of these patients.