ABSTRACT
The full range of resources and interventions needed by young people who self-harm spans the responsibilities of many agencies and services. However, care services, including accident and emergency and mental health services, play the greatest role. People who self-harm often come to health services in crisis and may present with a range of emotions including intense worry, unhappiness and anger. Consequently, they often require mental health as well as physical health care services. However, it is not only health services that support young people who self-harm. Other statutory and third-sector providers also have a key contribution to make. This chapter discusses interventions in primary services and secondary care services for young people who self-harm, and explores the roles and responsibilities of key workers in community and hospital settings. Good practice in referral, admission and discharge procedures are discussed.
