Child and adolescent self—poisoning: service—related characteristics

摘要: This study presents the pattern of assessment and 6-month out-patient attendance 54 children adolescents who took an overdose over a 12-month period, were assessed by district child adolescent psychiatry service. Attempts precipitated arguments (67%) or school-related stressors (19%). In 70.4% cases, analgesic tablets used. A psychiatric disorder was present in 51% cases. At 6 months, 13% patients still attending for follow-up, while three (5.5%) had taken second overdose. Admission to paediatric ward can facilitate initiation treatment. Child mental health services should aim at providing prompt assessment, good communication with other agencies, follow-up arrangements, particularly high-risk young people their families