Profil sociodémographique et clinique d’une population de consultants dans un service universitaire de pédopsychiatrie de la Tunisie

Abstract

ObjectiveThe profile of child and adolescents attending psychiatric health care seems to have evolved in Tunisia in recent years. The aim of our study was to determine the clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of outpatients of child and adolescent psychiatric department at Razi hospital, unique psychiatric hospital at Tunis, capital of Tunisia. MethodsThis is a descriptive and retrospective study was based on records of outpatient seen between January and December 2009 in the department of child and adolescent psychiatry and for which follow-up has been indicated. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected using a pre-established grid. ResultsIn total, 583 outpatients were selected with an average age at 8.8years (SD) and a sex ratio male/female=2. The consultations request came from a specialist in almost half of clients. The main reasons for attending care were psychomotor instability and behavioral disorders (29.6%). According DSM-IV criteria, a quarter of diagnosis was related to mental retardation and learning disabilities disorders as well as internalized disorders. Two third of followed outpatients had non-pharmacological therapeutic care. ConclusionSociodemographic and clinical profile of outpatients in child and adolescent psychiatry in Tunis seemed to be more and more similar to those in Western countries. This finding suggests a need to adapt care services to these changes particularly through a better collaboration between psychiatrists and other health professionals (general physicians, pediatricians, etc). Similarly, developing other child and adolescent psychiatry's centers in other regions of the country and improving their accessibility was another challenge that it's important to face.