Suicidal Factors of Patients at the Mental Health and Psychiatric Clinic at Wiang Chiang Rung Hospital - ปัจจัยที่เกี่ยวข้องกับการทำร้ายตนเอง ในผู้ป่วยคลินิกสุขภาพจิต และจิตเวช โรงพยาบาลเวียงเชียง

Abstract

                       Suicide is one of important problems in Wiang Chiang Rung district; patients who have either mental health or psychiatric problems constitute a group which is at risk of suicide. This descriptive research was to survey suicidal factors of patients at the mental health and psychiatric clinic at Wiang Chiang Rung Hospital, Chiang Rai Province. The sample group consisted of 52 patients from April through July, 2008. The instrument employed was a set of questionnaire modified from one used at Khon Kaen (Province) Rajanagarinda Psychiatric Hospital. Data was presented in terms of frequency and percentage.

                       The results of the research showed that a majority of the samples worked in agriculture (44.2%) while 48.1 percent reported annual income approximately remaining the same as that of the preceding year while 30.8 percent reporting relatively lower income. The health problems of the majority were psychiatric disorders (48.1%). It was found that 55.8 percent suffered from sadness, unhappiness, or despair then. With regard to current problems, 50.0 percent cited poverty and debts. Given these factors, 36.5 percent recalled one reason for not harming oneself was their families while 36.5 percent still valued their lives. A majority had relatives or friends living close by who could provide help in case of need (92.3%). All were aware of where to seek counseling services.

                     In conclusion, the mental health and psychiatric care system should be developed with a cooperation and assistance of related community organizations focusing on income and financial burden as well as a program for the promotion of family mental health and self-esteem in the general community.

Key words:      suicidal factors, mental health and psychiatric patients