Survivors of Self Inflicted Firearm Injury: a Psychiatric Perspective

The clinical profile of self-inflicted firearm injury survivors was examined, particularly the nature of their psychopathology. An eight-year retrospective case history analysis was discussed in this presentation. The typical survivor was male & young. The absence of major depression & psychosis was notable. Most injuries occurred in the context of interpersonal disputes. Recommendations were made to assist in the more accurate identification & management of patients with deliberate self-harm.