Document Type : Case Report

Authors

1 All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna

2 All India Institute of medical sciences, Patna, India

3 Type- 5, Block-2, Flat No- 104, AIIMS RESIDENTIAL COMPLEX Hydraulic Road, opposite to walmi, Phulwarisharif (Danapur)

4 AIIMS, Patna, India

5 AIIMS, Patna

10.30476/beat.2025.105222.1563

Abstract

Background: Suicidal cutthroat injuries are rare in Indian society, as reported by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant rise in unemployment among Indian youth led to increased psychological distress and depression, contributing to a surge in suicide cases, including those presenting with cutthroat injuries in emergency departments.
Case Presentation: We report two distinct cases of suicidal cutthroat injuries, both involving young individuals who were unemployed during the pandemic and suffered from underlying psychiatric illnesses. Both patients presented with severe injuries to the neck, requiring immediate and complex intervention. Their conditions were compounded by the psychological trauma associated with their mental health disorders.
Management and Outcome: The management of these cases required a multidisciplinary approach, involving emergency medical care, surgical intervention, and psychiatric support. Both patients received prompt attention and stabilisation, followed by psychological counselling and long-term psychiatric care. Their recovery was monitored closely, with a focus on addressing the root causes of their distress.
Conclusion: These cases highlight the increasing incidence of suicidal cutthroat injuries during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasise the need for a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to manage both the physical and psychological aspects of such critical situations. This report calls for greater attention to mental health, especially among the unemployed youth during crises.

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