IMPULSIVITY IN SUICIDE ATTEMPTERS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE IN KERALA

Abstract

Background And Objectives: Worldwide, suicide is one among the leading causes of premature mortality. Suicidal attempt is a well known risk factor for completed suicide. Impulsivity is a factor that is accepted as a good endophenotype in suicidal behaviour. Aim of this study was to study the prevalence of impulsivity in suicide attempters. Methods:This study was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in a Medical College in Kerala from March 2015 to December 2015. 125 patients who came with suicide attempt were studied using BIS scale-11 for impulsivity. Statistical analysis of the data was done using SPSS software. Results And Discussion: In this study, impulsivity was found in 68% of suicide attempters. Impulsivity was greater in the unmarried suicidal attempters, those with higher educational status, younger patients and those without psychiatric illness. Impulsivity was more in adjustment disorder, substance dependence, bipolar affective disorder and less in psychotic and depressed patients who attempted suicide. Impulsivity was also related to mode of suicide attempt. Conclusion: This study showed high prevalence of impulsivity in suicidal attempters. More studies in this area can denitely help to understand and prevent this tragic health problem.