Adolescents who Take Overdoses: Outcome in Terms of Changes in Psychopathology and the Adolescents’ Attitudes to Care and to Their Overdose

Adolescent self-poisoners were followed up 3 months after taking an overdose. High levels of psychopathology were found, with 72% of the 25 adolescents having a diagnosable psychiatric disorder & 48% having major depression. 72% of the adolescents found treatment useful. The adolescents received a generally sympathetic response from significant others. 54% thought their overdose had resulted in improvements to their lives but 44% would consider taking another overdose in similar circumstances.