Repetition of Parasuicide, Psychiatric Diagnosis and Treatment Modalities: a One-Year Follow-Up (IN: Suicide Attempts in the Nordic Countries: Epidemiology and Treatment, edited by T Bjerke & T C Stiles)

The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for the repetition of parasuicide. During the period February 1989-October 1989, 195 suicide attempters were registered (118 women, 77 men) at the Odense University Hospital. In a one-year follow-up period, 48 patients attempted suicide at least once more. 6 patients completed suicide, & 8 patients died from other cause. Personality disorders, & alcohol & drug abuse were identified as risk factors for another suicide attempt. Some depressive symptoms & previous psychiatric treatment were also risk factors for repetitive self-harm. Treatment & prevention strategies for this population are discussed. (22 refs.)