Year: 1999 Source: Irish Journal of Psychological Medicine, v.16, no.1, (March 1999), p.9-12 SIEC No: 20010571

This study aimed to identify the extent & nature of parasuicide in young people under 17 years of age in the Foyle (Northern Ireland) area in the 28 month period up to & including April 1997. The pscyhiatric assessments of all those admitted to hospital as the result of parasuicide during this period were examined. A psychosocial & clinial profile of this group of young people was then constructed. Any reported stressors recorded in the assessments were noted, & an attempt was made to track contact with helping agencies in each case during the months immediately before & after admission. 124 young people were admitted during the study period, the vast majority following an overdose. Family conflict, family illness & bullying were the 3 most frequently recorded stressors. Two-thirds had no apparent contact with services in the 3 months prior to admission, & of these half were not referred on to specialist services after they had been discharged from hospital. (7 refs.)