Suicidal behavior trends in a pediatric population in Hawai'i.
In this retrospective 2-year study the clinical and demographic characteristics of pediatric patients in Hawai'i evaluated for suicide attempts (or possible suicide attempts) at a local children's hospital were examined. Our intentions were to uncover any trends in this unique, culturally diverse population that has not been studied extensively. Sixty-five patients were identified, of which 86% were girls with the highest age demographic at 15-16 years of age (34%) and medication overdose the most common mechanism. Ethnicity trends could not reliably be ascertained. The circumstances surrounding the suicidal behavior; adjustment disorder being a common diagnosis; and approximately half of the population not intending to complete suicide suggests possible impulsivity. Thus, the results have the potential to direct interventions for community suicide prevention programs in Hawai'i, with a focus on coping strategies and medication overdose education.
Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Ronald C
RC
Magat
Anthony P S
AP
Guerrero
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002669:Child Welfare; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006254:Hawaii; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D016728:Self-Injurious Behavior / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D013405:Suicide / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D013406:Suicide, Attempted / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D000092864:Suicide Prevention