Risk Flashcards
Can risk be eliminated?
No
It can be assessed, managed, frequently reviewed.
What is suicide?
A fatal act of self injury, undertaken with more or less conscious self destructive internet, however vague and ambiguous.
What is para-suicide?
Similar to suicide, but for whatever reason the victim survived the attempt
Describe deliberate self harm
An act of self harm where the action was not with the intention of death, but to cause harm
Roughly how many people commit suicide wordwide each year?
1 million
What is the usual male to female suicide ratio?
3:1
In 2017, what age group for males had the highest rates of suicide?
45-49
In 2017 what age range for females had the highest suicide rates?
50 to 54
When is suicide risk at its highest?
During inpatient stay and 14 days post discharge
What are some suicide risk factors?
Male Living alone Unemployment Drug and alcohol misuse Mental illness Past self harm
What are the main correlates between mood disorders and suicide?
Greater severity of illness Self neglect Hopelessness Alcohol abuse Impaired concentration History of suicide behaviour
How many times are people with bipolar disorder more likely to attempt suicide than the general population?
20 times
What are the main correlates between schizophrenia and suicide?
Positive psychotic symptoms Post psychotic depression Young and male First decade of illness Relapsing pattern of illness Recent hospital discharge Social isolation Good insight into illness
What are the main correlates between alcohol abuse and suicide?
Male sex Longer duration of problems Single/divorced/widowed Multiple substance abuse Comorbid depression
What are the main correlates between PD and suicide?
Depressive syndrome or substance (alcohol) abuse
Borderline PD at highest risk - accidental deaths
What are the main correlates between chronic physical illness and suicide?
Severe chronic pain
Disfigurement - especially in women
Loss of job, role, family, money
Increased risk with chronic neuro, GI, cardio, cancers
What are the two main types of deliberate self harm?
Self poisoning
Self injury
Are the highest rates of deliberate self harm in males or females?
Females
What is the peak age range for deliberate self harm?
15-44
What is the percentage of increased suicide risk in people with h/o DSH?
40-60%
What methods are there for DSH?
Cutting, burning, scratching, banging, wound healing interference, hair pulling, toxin ingestion
What are some associations with repeated self harm?
Alcohol/ drug misuse Unemployment History of trauma- sexual or physical abuse Criminal record Single/divorced FH - 4 times increased risk
What are some possible motives underlying DSH?
Wish to die Cry for help Communication with others Unbearable symptoms Temporary relief of anxiety
What are some psychological characteristics associated with DSH?
Impulsivity
Cognitive rigidity
Problem solving deficits
Hopelessness
