CB Chow, KY Chan, MW Cheung, NK Leung

From January 1989 to December 1991, 88 children under the age of 15 years were admitted to Paediatric A Unit, Princess Margaret Hospital for drug overdose or poisoning. Of these, 20 cases represented suicidal attempts. There were 6 boys and 14 girls and all were over 11 years of age. Methods of suicide included ingestion of chemicals in 14 cases (70%) and ingestion of drugs in another 6 cases (30%). Wrist cuttings were additionally undertaken in 3 cases. Precipitating events were due to problems with parents in 11 cases (55%), siblings in 4 cases (20%), peers in 3 cases (15%) and school in 2 cases (10%). Psychiatrist was consulted in 17 cases and 12 (70%) were diagnosed to have adjustment or situational reactions and 5 (30%) conduct problems. The motive of suicides was all for expression of their feelings or relief from stress. Family problems were present in all and school problems in 60%. Truancy, stealing or drug abuse were common occurring in 14 cases. Management of these children had been most difficult. Multi-disciplinary approach is required.