Review of parasuicide cases in a South African district hospital from 2013-2018

Abstract

Parasuicide is referred to as an apparent attempt at suicide without the actual intention of killing oneself. Its prevalence continues to increase at Brits District Hospital. The current study aimed to review the parasuicide cases presented at this hospital from 2013 to 2018. The hospital is located in Madibeng district, in the North-West Province of South Africa. The study results have painted a clear picture of parasuicide cases at Brits district hospital where the phenomenon was more often observed among young African females, who were single, unemployed, and with a secondary level of education. For most of them, it was the first attempt and mainly occurred in the months of January and February. Overdose of medication was the most common method used and a relationship problem remained the main reason that motivated the attempt.