Abstract
Background: Suicide is a major public health issue globally, with numerous contributing factors
ranging from mental health conditions to socioeconomic challenges. Effective prevention strategies are essential to reduce suicide rates and improve mental health outcomes.Objective: To assess the key risk factors associated with suicide and evaluate the effectiveness of various prevention strategies among patients with psychiatric disorders.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Psychiatry, involving 40 patients with a history of suicidal ideation or behaviour. Data were collected through structured interviews, focusing on demographic details, psychiatric history, and risk factors such as previous suicide attempts, family history, chronic illnesses, and socioeconomic status. The effectiveness of suicide prevention strategies, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), crisis intervention, and community-based programs, was evaluated. Statistical analyses, including correlation and regression, were conducted to identify significant associations between risk factors and suicidal behaviour. Results: Depression was the most common psychiatric disorder (50%), with other mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder (20%) and schizophrenia (15%), also contributing to suicide risk. Previous suicide attempts were reported by 37.5% of patients. Social factors like unemployment (30%) and social isolation (35%) were significant. Prevention strategies showed high effectiveness, with 80% improvement in patients receiving CBT and 85% improvement in those with access to mental health services.
Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of addressing both psychiatric and social risk factors in suicide prevention. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, crisis intervention, and access to mental health services are critical components of effective prevention strategies. A comprehensive approach that integrates individual and systemic interventions is essential to reduce suicide rates and improve mental health outcomes.
Keywords: Suicide, Risk Factors, Prevention Strategies, Mental Health, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Crisis Intervention, Social Isolation, Psychiatric Disorders..