PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG PEOPLE WHO ATTEMPTED SUICIDE AT PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Suicide is a major public problem and is commonly associated with various mental disorders among which depression is particularly important risk factor. Many patients who suffered from depression never had access to psychiatric care or proper treatment before committing suicide. Objective: To assess the prevalence of depression and associated factors among people who attempted suicide and attended public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods:We conducted a Hospital based cross sectional study from June 10 –August 4 , 2019 G.C. A total of 37 suicide attempt cases were found during the study period. 31 of them fullffilled the inclusion criteria and were included. An informed writen consent was obtained from all of them. Before data collection Ethics clearance was obtained from SPHMMC IRB.PHQ-9 for depression and a risk assessment form adapted from Beck's suicide intent scale was used. Pretested structured questionnaire was administered by trained nurses. Multiple logistic analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with depression. Results: The prevalence of depression among people who attempted suicide was 38.7% in the study. Regarding severity of suicide attempt : 67.74% seriously attempted to end life and 16.13% had high risk for further suicide attempt. Conclusion: Depression is common among people who attempted suicide. Early diagnosis of individuals with depression and intervention will reduce suicide attempt. Keywords: Depression Suicide Attempt Addis Ababa Ethiopia