Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Suicidal Attempts in Children and Adolescents: A Single-Center Emergency Department Evaluation

Objective: The objective of this study was to ascertain the demographic, clinical, and suicide attempt- related characteristics of child and adolescent cases admitted to the emergency department following a suicide attempt. The aim was to contribute to the development of targeted preventive strategies. Methods: This research is a retrospective, observational, and descriptive study conducted at a single cen- ter. A total of 70 pediatric and adolescent patients, under the age of 18, who presented to the emergency department over a 1-year period, were included in the study. These patients were classified as medico- legal cases and underwent a child and adolescent psychiatric evaluation at the time of their initial admis- sion. Variables analyzed included patients’ demographic information, clinical features, methods of suicide attempts, underlying reasons, and seasonal distribution. Results: A total of 70 cases were included in the study. Of the cases in question, 65.7% were female, and 34.3% were male, with an average age of 16. The most prevalent method employed in suicide attempts was the ingestion of multiple drugs or toxic substances (74.3%). The primary cause of suicide attempts was identified as familial problems (34.3%). The incidence of suicide attempts was found to be higher during the winter season. Additionally, girls were more likely to use drugs and toxic substances, while boys were more prone to using sharp objects and firearms. Conclusion: The study revealed that adolescent girls were more likely to attempt suicide, with the highest incidence occurring during the winter months. The most common method employed was the use of drugs and toxic substances. The risk of suicide was found to be elevated among children with a family history of psychiatric disorders. These findings highlight the necessity of incorporating demographic, familial, and seasonal variables into the development of targeted preventive and management strategies.