Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A (2024)

Background: Suicidal behavior is a major global public health problem, and understanding its epidemiology is crucial for prevention strategies. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and identify associated factors among patients attending Psychosocial Units (PSUs) within Iraqi Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCCs).
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. Data was collected from all individuals who attended PSUs in Iraqi PHCCs between 1 January and 31 December 2021. A standardized form collected information on demographics, circumstances surrounding suicidal attempts, and past mental health history.
Results: A total of 280 patients reported suicidal attempts, representing 1% of PSU attendees and an incidence rate of 3/10,000 people. In particular, 87% were women, with a concentration in young people (60%) and young adults (34.3%). Sociodemographic characteristics revealed that 56% were unmarried, 54% had low education levels, and 68.6% were housewives. Alarmingly, 93% did not have a prior psychiatric evaluation and 97.1% had no history of hospitalization. Furthermore, 82.9% reported no family history of suicide attempts. Interestingly, 51.4% reported a first attempt, with 94.3% occurring at home. Drug intoxication (48.6%) and self-harm (22.9%) were the most common methods, with 34.3% using multiple methods. A significant finding was that 77% refused hospital admission. The study identified acute emotional distress, particularly violence, as the main reason for the attempts (63%), followed by socioeconomic and psychological factors.
Conclusion: Suicidal behavior is a concern in Iraqi communities, with limited access to mental health services for those struggling. Strengthening PSUs and improving access to psychosocial interventions within PHCCs are crucial to prevention efforts.