1632 – Risk factors for parasuicidal behavior among alcoholics
Introduction It is well recognized that alcohol dependence is among the major risk factors that are associated with suicidal behavior. Objectives This study was design to extend our understanding of alcohol-parasuicide relationship by examining some of the socio-demographic and mental health characteristics of alcohol dependent suicide attempters. Methods The relationship between alcohol dependence and parasuicide was studied among patients admitted to a Gomel regional psychiatric hospital (Belarus). A total 117 male alcohol dependent in-patients (ADPS) and a comparison group of 128 non-alcohol dependent parasuicidal in-patients (NADPS) were investigated. The socio-demographic and mental health profile of each group was analyzed. Results Risk factors for parasuicide were acute alcohol intoxication, social dysfunction and psychiatric symptoms. Results show that, compared with NADPS patients, those with an alcohol dependence were older (32.1 vs. 29.3; p Conclusions These findings are consistent with previous research indicating a causal role for acute alcohol intoxication in parasuicidal behavior among alcohol dependent individuals.