Who helps? Supporting people who self-harm

Abstract

This paper presents findings from a survey in which self-harmers were asked to indicate who they had consulted for help in the past and their level of satisfaction with these various sources of professional help. A total of 243 valid responses to an internet-based survey were obtained from users of electronic mailing groups. The survey included questions about who they had approached for help, how satisfied they were with that help and other information relating to the practice of self-harm. Medical personnel were rated as providing the most unsatisfactory support, while self-harm specialists were rated as providing the most satisfactory support. Respondents were more likely to self-harm at night, and the act of self-harm reduced anxiety, depression and confusion. Suggestions for effective intervention are considered in relation to literature on attitudes and behaviours towards self-harmers by health professionals and the need for re-education is emphasised.