Therapeutic Assessment of Patients following Self-Harm

Self-harm is an important health issue. It is more prevalent in the UK than the rest of Europe. An estimated 170 000 people present to hospital each year but most acts of self-harm do not result in presentation for medical attention; so self-harm is largely a community problem with real-term figures an unknown. This article explains the terminology associated with self-harm, provides explanations for the different motives and suggest ways in which primary care can contribute to assessing and responding to patients engaging in self-harm. It will also explain a process to mitigate risk.