Worrying rise in reports of self-harm among teenage girls in UK

Conclusions This valuable study raises concerns about the large increase in rates of self-harm among young teenage girls, and the apparent inequality in both rates of self-harm and recognition of risk between areas of greater and lesser deprivation. It is also notable that alcohol or drug overdose was recorded in the majority of self-harm cases. These suggest, as the researchers rightly say, areas to target public health attention. There are though, a few points to consider: It can be difficult to distinguish between self-harm without intention of suicide and a suicide attempt. This distinction is usually made by discussing the intent with the person, but this can be harder with young people. The authors made rigorous attempts to analyse the records to distinguish “milder” forms of self-harm from near-fatal suicide attempts, but it can still be difficult to ensure all are accurately categorised. It’s not easy to use this type of data to look into the cause of these trends – for example why rates are increasing among young teenage girls, or why there is a social divide. This makes it all the more important for all young people who may be at risk to be recognised and get the support they need. If a young person is feeling low, anxious or helpless, it is extremely important that they speak with someone. Read more advice about getting help if you self-harm. Links To The Headlines 'Steep rise' in self-harm among teenage girls. BBC News, October 19 2017 Self-harm among gir...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Mental health Source Type: news