Survivors of deliberate self-harm attempt in the military milieu: An exploratory study of psychiatric morbidity and psychosocial correlates

Abstract

BackgroundDeliberate self-harm (DSH) is common in modern society. A million people worldwide die from suicide each year, leading to a large toll on human resources and economy. Research has revealed DSH as an important indicator of eventual suicide worldwide. The present study focused on DSH attempters among Armed Forces personnel and family members with the aim of identifying modifiable factors to provide recommendations for primary prevention in the military milieu. MethodsHundred cases of survivors of DSH were evaluated in a case–control study using psychiatry assessment instruments (the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview, Pierce Suicide Intent Scale, Hamilton's Depression and Anxiety Scales and presumptive life event scale) to assess psychiatric morbidity and psychosocial correlates. The findings were compared with those of 100 healthy matched controls. The data were analysed using SPSS software. ResultThe majority of DSH survivors (98%) had concurrent psychiatric morbidity, major depressive disorder (23%) being the commonest diagnosis followed by psychotic disorder and alcohol use disorder. Presence of relationship problems (69%) and financial difficulties (19%) were significant triggering factors in our study. Many DSH attempters had voiced suicidal ideation (66%) before their act and had history of aggression or violence (76%) in the past. ConclusionOur findings are discussed in relation with findings in the literature. Recommendations regarding awareness campaign, specific skill development programs and the need for early intervention in individuals with psychiatric morbidity have been proposed to prevent such behaviours.