Abstract
The Sri Lanka Journal of Psychiatry (SLJP) is a peer-reviewed, open access journal published bi annually by the Sri Lanka College of Psychiatrists.The Journal publishes original papers, brief reports including case reports and commentaries relevant to psychiatry and allied sciences. The Sri Lanka Journal of Psychiatry is committed to maintaining and conforming to the editorial and ethical standards recommended by the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors.Cover“Perseverance”. These tenacious fishermen in Mannar continue their livelihood despite numerous difficulties. L. N. P. Samarasinghe, Acting Consultant Psychiatrist, Base Hospital Nikaweratiya, Sri Lanka.
Highlights
Burns are associated with significant psychological morbidity
The cause of the burn was accidental in 55%, self-inflicted in 31% and homicidal in 3.4%
Among all patients with burns, a past diagnosis of mental illness was detected in 35.6%, substance use in 11.5%, and personality disorders in 10.3%
Summary
Burns are associated with significant psychological morbidity. The relationship between burns and psychiatric conditions is bidirectional. The mortality and disability caused by burn injuries have been halved over the last 50 years, with advancements of surgical and medical management [1]. The relationship between burns and psychiatric morbidity is bidirectional. Psychiatric morbidity on the other hand is known to be associated with increased risk of burns [4]. The use of psychotropic medications itself may indirectly increase the risk of burns, due to their sedative effect [5]. Psychological distress during the hospital stay has been significantly associated with greater physical disability at one year after the burn injury [6,7]. Early identification and treatment of psychiatric illness in burn patients is imperative to help patients return to a satisfactory functional level with minimal delay
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
