Parasuicide among youth in a general hospital in South Africa

Parasuicide cases among youth (15-24 years) referred to the clinical psychology section of a regional hospital from 1995 to 1998 were reviewed. In all 100 cases (37 males and 63 females) were identified being about 10% of the caseload. As part of the clinical psychological assessment sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, trigger factors, employed methods and suicide intentions were analysed. Most patients were students (79%) or unemployed (16%). The major method employed to attempt suicide was ingestion of harmful substances (like paraffin, pesticides or battery acid)(73%). Acute social conflicts (38%), socio-economic deprivation (17%), AIDS phobia (17%), academic failure (14%), teenage pregnancy (10%) and mental illness (5%) triggered suicide attempts. Fifty-eight percent of the attempts were categorised as demonstrative and 27% as genuine. The psychodynamics of parasuicides are discussed in case studies and with reference to other studies.