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Risk Factors for Self-Harm and Suicide Following Bariatric Surgery

Description

A patient who has undergone bariatric surgery may commit self-harm or suicide afterwards. It is important to screen patients for factors suggesting psychological problems that need to be addressed before and after the surgery. Patients should be informed of the risk and encouraged to discuss negative emotions with a trusted provider.


Patient selection: bariatric surgery

 

Factors to investigate prior to surgery:

(1) history of significant depression

(2) history and nature of self-harm

(3) history of suicide attempts

 

Factors to investigate after surgery:

(1) evidence of significant depression

(2) intentions or episodes of self-harm

(3) suicidal ideation and/or attempts

(4) significant postoperative gastrointestinal complications

 

Some studies monitored patients based on hospitalizations for depression or self-harm. This may be relatively insensitive since many patients with psychological problems are are managed as outpatients.


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