Social, toxicological and meteorological data on suicide attempts

Area of Science:

• Environmental Psychology
• Clinical Toxicology
• Public Health

Background:

• Attempted suicide by poisoning is a significant public health concern.
• Understanding the multifactorial nature of suicide attempts is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
• The role of environmental factors, such as weather, in the timing of suicide attempts requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze factors influencing suicide attempts by poisoning.
• To investigate the correlation between weather conditions and the timing of suicide attempts.
• To identify potential triggers and risk factors for suicide attempts.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 151 Intensive Care Unit patients admitted after attempted suicide by poisoning.
• Collection of patient data including age, substances consumed, and causal factors.
• Correlation of suicide attempt timing with meteorological data from the German Weather Service.

Main Results:

• The mean age of patients was 37.6 years, with common substances including barbiturates, chemicals, and tranquillizers.
• Partnership conflicts and occupational problems were primary provoking causes; 24% involved alcohol co-ingestion.
• Significant positive correlations were found between suicide attempts and specific weather parameters like fog, thunderstorms, and warm air; fewer attempts occurred during low-pressure systems.

Conclusions:

• Individual factors like personal conflicts and psychiatric disorders play a role in suicide attempts.
• Exogenous factors, particularly specific weather conditions, significantly influence the timing of suicide attempts.
• These findings highlight the importance of considering both individual and environmental factors in suicide prevention programs.