Description
Introduction
There are large references in the international literature about the influence of physicalor sexualabuse as risk factor for suicidal behaviour. In Portugal we have a few studies in this issue whichstrong the importance of this research.
Methods
We applied a semi-structured interview in ourSuicide Research and Prevention Unit covering both social and clinical aspects. We compared twosamples of young suicide attempters (n=448): one, who had history of physical abuse duringchildhood
(33.1%) or sexual abuse (15,3%) and others. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 22.
Results
Concerningthe first sample, we found these main differences: More low social status, institutional education anddysfunctional family, psychiatric disorders among family, affective and financial problems, suicidalbehaviours within the family. The sample who had history of sexual abuse during childhood showed more urban environment, development abnormalities, isolation, psychotropic abuse, psychopathology, psychiatric disorders among family, bereavement, self-aggressiveness/guilty, satisfaction for survival and financial problems; Less group activities, medical consultation and suicidal behaviours .
Discussion
These findings show us strong vulnerabilities and a lack of coping strategies. In order to fight the isolation and a better understanding of despair process and psychological pain we need to appeal to an accurate intervention, but also highlighted the importance of familyconcerning multiple aspects, such as development, education, models, peers relationship andfinancial support.
Conclusions
This sample of young suicidal attempters highlighted the need of a specific knowledge and expertise to cope with these patients where the family focus emerged as an essentialtarget in preventive strategies as our National Suicide Prevention
Plan (2013) refers.
; Veiga, Francisco Alte da 
