Self-harm, a complex and often misunderstood issue, affects a significant number of people across all age groups, genders, and backgrounds. As a crucial public health concern, it is vital to address self-harm with sensitivity, empathy, and understanding. This course offers an in-depth exploration of the various factors that contribute to self-harm, including psychological, social, and cultural aspects, enabling participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue.

This stand-alone course, developed to build upon the successful Scotland’s Mental Health First Aid (SMHFA) program, is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and techniques necessary to identify, understand, and support individuals who engage in self-harm behaviours. Throughout this course, you will learn how to recognise the signs and symptoms of self-harm, respond effectively to individuals in distress, and provide appropriate support to encourage recovery.

Self-harm, also known as self-injury or self-mutilation, refers to the intentional act of causing physical harm or injury to one’s own body without the intent to commit suicide. People who self-harm often use it as a coping mechanism to deal with emotional distress, overwhelming feelings, or psychological pain. Common methods of self-harm include cutting, scratching, burning, hitting, or biting oneself.

Self-harm is often a sign of underlying mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or borderline personality disorder, and individuals who engage in self-harm may need professional support to address the root causes of this behaviour. It is essential to approach the topic with sensitivity and understanding, as those who self-harm are often experiencing significant emotional turmoil and may feel ashamed or stigmatised.

• In 2019, the Scottish Government published a report on the mental health of children and young people, which revealed that self-harm rates had increased over time. The report showed that 14.8% of 15-year-old girls and 4.7% of 15-year-old boys reported self-harming in the previous 12 months.
• A study by the Mental Health Foundation (2018) found that around one in six (16.3%) young people in Scotland aged 16-24 had self-harmed at some point in their lives.

• The same study revealed that more than a quarter (26.1%) of young women aged 16-24 had self-harmed, compared to 6.8% of young men in the same age group.
• Data from NHS Scotland indicated that the number of hospital admissions due to self-harm in 2017/2018 was around 5,700. However, it is important to note that many cases of self-harm may not result in hospitalisation and might go unreported.

Embark on a transformative learning journey as you delve into key topics such as recognising the signs and symptoms of self-harm, communicating effectively with individuals in distress, and employing intervention strategies to offer timely assistance. Additionally, you will become familiar with the available resources and professional services that can aid individuals who engage in self-harm behaviours. By exploring the complexities of self-harm and gaining valuable insights into available resources and support systems, you can contribute to creating a more understanding and compassionate society.