Self-harm and suicide risk
Intentional self-poisoning or self-injury irrespective of apparent purpose, requiring concurrent physical care, compassionate psychosocial assessment, individualised safety planning and coordinated aftercare.
Definition
Self-harm is intentional self-poisoning or self-injury irrespective of the apparent purpose of the act. It may occur with or without suicidal intent and can coexist with mental illness, substance use, physical illness or social crisis.
First principles
Self-harm is defined by the act, not by an assumed motive
NICE defines self-harm as intentional self-poisoning or self-injury irrespective of the apparent purpose. Suicidal intent may be present, absent, ambivalent or change during the episode, so ask about it directly rather than inferring it from the method or the person's initial description.
This page is exam revision material, not medical advice, and must not be used for patient care. Always check drug doses against the BNF and current guidance. Full disclaimer.