Trends and repetition of non-fatal suicidal behaviour: analyses of the Gold Coast University Hospital’s Emergency Department

Abstract

Objective The aim of the current paper is to analyse time trends of non-fatal suicidal behaviour (NFSB) and its repetition at the Gold Coast in 2005–2015. Methods Data on presentations for NFSB were obtained from the Emergency Department (ED) Information System. Potential cases were identified through keyword searches, which were further scrutinised and coded. Annual person-based age-standardised rates for NFSB were calculated. Chi-square test, Poisson regression and Cox proportional hazards regression were used. Results: There was a significant increase in the age-standardised rates of NFSB for males (incidence Rate Ratio = 1.05; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04–1.07) and females (iRR = 1.06; 95% CI: 1.04–1.07). Age-specific rates showed significant increases for all age groups, except 25–34 and 55+ for females. Different types of poisoning were the predominant method of NFSB (poisoning only – 61.7% of episodes), followed by cutting (23%). Within the first year after the index episode, 13.4% of subjects repeated NFSB. Multivariate Cox regression model showed that sex, age and method predicted repetition. Conclusion: The increasing trends of NFSB and relatively high repetition rates emphasise the need for preventative actions. Monitoring of NFSB at the ED level should be further extended in Australia.