Self Harm & Suicide

Self harm results in significant yearly admissions in Wales across all ages and is one of the top five causes of medical admissions. Self harm is the strongest risk factor for suicide, the second leading cause of death in the 15 to 19 year old population. However, only a very small fraction of those who self harm go on to make suicide attempts or die by suicide. The risk factors for young people who self harm are consistent with other safeguarding risks such as child abuse and neglect, substance misuse, intimate partner violence and sexual exploitation.
 
Front line health professionals play a key role in the management of those who self harm. Often they are the first contact for the young person with support services and this has a significant impact on the outcome for the young person and future help seeking. Young people who have self harmed need to be cared for with compassion and the same respect and dignity as any service user.

Suicide and self harm prevention strategy 2015 to 2020 identifies the priorities for organisations in Wales.

Guidance:

Suicide and self harm prevention strategy 2015 to 2020