A trauma perspective on a case of Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser Syndrome presenting with major depression with psychosis

@#The psychological impact of the diagnosis of congenital anomalies is an area with limited research; and more limited still when such congenital anomalies are not very obvious. MayerRokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome can be one of those less apparent congenital anomalies. Owing to their inability to bear children, women confronted with the diagnosis of MRKH can be left stressed, or worse, traumatized by the fact that they can no longer function in their traditional gender roles. This may leave any individual wanting to deny the diagnosis or even withhold such information. And the experience is a fertile ground for the development of any mental illness. MRKH occurs in every 1 out of 4000-5000 females. Although the psychological impact of stress is a well –established fact, there are fewer literature on the possible genetic link of MRKH and mental illness, the psychodynamic underpinnings and the similarities to trauma of the diagnosis of MRKH, in particular. We present here a case of MRKH syndrome with an initial presentation of major depression and psychosis; with the diagnosis of MRKH initially withheld from the resident psychiatrist. We would also want to highlight a trauma perspective of the case presented as well as to emphasize the need for more research congenital anomalies are accompanied by co-morbid psychiatric illnesses.

Prevalence of nonsuicidal self-injury and suicide attempt among young adult university students

@#<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>OBJECTIVE:</strong> To determine the prevalence and possible risk factors associated with nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicide attempt among young adult university students.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>METHODS:</strong> A cross-sectional study involving six colleges from a university in Manila, from which randomization through a computer-generated random number was done. Data were obtained through self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were done to evaluate the data.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>RESULTS:</strong> A total of 225 students participated in the study (mean age of 20.33 years). Majority were females (60.44%). Ideations of self-harm were reported in 49.33%. NSSI and suicide attempts were reported at 26.22% and 14.67%, respectively. In general, self-harm (NSSI and/or suicidal attempt) was reported at 33.78%, while 7.11% of the respondents reported both NSSI and suicidal attempt in the past. Furthermore, 2-3 out of 10 students who engaged in NSSI would have a suicide attempt. Associated factors of NSSI and suicide attempt were age, female gender, gender orientation, parental civil status, employment, economic standing, and psychopathology which support the findings cited in literature.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>CONCLUSION: </strong>The high prevalence of self-harm NSSI and/or suicidal attempt (33.78%) and the finding that NSSI was a gateway for suicidal attempt and that 2-3 out of ten who engaged in NSSI would have a suicide attempt underscores the need to develop an early intervention upon detecting self-harming behaviors and a preventive program for the progression of NSSI to suicide attempts.</p>