Objectives:

To analyze the functional components of family dynamics and factors associated with attempted suicide in assisted patients in a public hospital in the city of Santiago del Estero in 2015.

Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed at the Regional Hospital Dr. Ramón Carrillo. The sample was 116 patients. A questionnaire was administered with two validated instruments: the family Apgar and the Suicide Risk Scale.

Results:

A total of 51% of the cases were women; the most commonly used method was drug ingestion. People with no partner predominated. An average age of 28 years was obtained. An average of two suicide attempts per person. The functional components regarding communication and affect were the most affected. The factors associated with the most important suicidal risk were negative affections, feelings of loneliness and suicidal ideation. There was a negative correlation between family functioning and suicidal risk.

Conclusions:

The dynamics of the family group directly or indirectly influence the suicidal behavior of a member of the family group. Therefore, it is essential to reinforce strategies that prioritize family health and the early detection of suicidal behavior.

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