Factors Associated with Suicidal Behavior in Patients Coming to the Emergency of Services Hospital, Lahore
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21649/akemu.v32i1.5960Keywords:
risk factors, psychiatric disorder, self harm, sociodemographic factors, emergency department, suicidal behaviorAbstract
Background: Suicidal behavior is a serious public health problem and is commonly seen in Emergency Department (ED) patients, where early detection is very important. It is influenced by psychological, social, and environmental factors. In Pakistan, mental health services are limited, and there is not enough data on suicidal behavior in ED patients.
Objective: To determine the factors associated with suicidal behavior in adult patients attending the emergency department (ED) of the Services Hospital, Lahore.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over three months in the ED of Services Hospital, Lahore. A total of 227 adults were included using convenience sampling. Data were collected through a pretested questionnaire after ethical approval. SPSS version 27 was used for analysis. Chi-square test was applied, and p < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: Out of 227 patients, 29.1% reported suicidal intent. Most participants (73.1%) were between 21–40 years of age, and 68.7%
were single. Anxiety (18.5%) and depression (17.2%) were common diagnoses, while 51.1% had no previous psychiatric history. Substance use was denied by 60.4%, but others reported use of drugs, alcohol, sheesha, smoking, or vaping. Financial stress was strongly linked with suicidal behavior. Poor family relationships (49.3%), pessimism (46.3%), introversion (36.1%), and recent life stressors were also important factors. Substance use and gender showed a significant association, and family relations were also linked with suicidal ideation (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Suicidal behavior in emergency patients was mainly linked with young age, marital status, poor family relationships, personality traits like introversion and pessimism, substance use, and recent stressful events. This study highlights the importance of paying attention to mental health in emergency settings. Simple screening for stress, substance use, and family issues can help identify at-risk patients early. Strengthening family support and providing brief counseling in EDs may reduce future risk.
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