Self-harm and suicide risk
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Self-Harm and Suicide Awareness
Self-harm is when a person deliberately injures themselves, often as a way of coping with overwhelming emotional distress, difficult emotions or psychological pain. Self-harm can include behaviours such as cutting, burning, scratching, hitting or other forms of intentional injury.
Although self-harm does not always mean a person intends to end their life, it can indicate that they are struggling emotionally and may be at increased risk of further harm or suicide.
Understanding Suicide Risk
Suicide risk refers to situations where a person may be considering, planning or attempting to end their life. This can be linked to a wide range of factors, including:
- Severe emotional distress
- Mental health conditions
- Trauma or abuse
- Feelings of hopelessness or isolation
- Substance misuse
- Major life events or personal crisis
For first aiders and first responders, recognising when someone may be experiencing a mental health crisis is extremely important so that appropriate support and emergency assistance can be provided.
Prioritising Safety
If you encounter a situation involving self-harm or possible suicide risk, the first priority must always be safety.
Ensure the situation is safe for:
- Yourself
- The casualty
- Anyone else nearby
If the person has injured themselves, taken an overdose or used substances, assess their condition and provide any immediate first aid treatment required.
You should also contact 999 or request additional emergency support if necessary, particularly where there is a risk to life, serious injury or ongoing danger.
Providing Support and Reassurance
When speaking with someone in crisis, remain:
- Calm
- Supportive
- Empathetic
- Non-judgemental
Introduce yourself clearly and speak in a calm and reassuring manner. Listen carefully to what the person is saying and allow them time to talk without interrupting, criticising or dismissing their feelings.
It is important to let the person know that:
- Help is available
- They are not alone
- Support is on the way
However, avoid making promises that you may not be able to keep.
Reducing Immediate Risk
If it is safe to do so, try to reduce access to anything that may cause immediate harm. This should only be done if it does not place you or others at risk.
Encourage the person to remain with you until professional help arrives and continue to provide reassurance and support.
Monitoring the Casualty
Continue to monitor the casualty’s:
- Breathing
- Responsiveness
- Level of consciousness
- Overall condition
This is especially important if the casualty has:
- Taken medication or substances
- Suffered physical injury
- Taken an overdose
- Consumed alcohol or drugs
The Role of First Aiders and First Responders
Supporting someone experiencing self-harm or suicidal thoughts can be emotionally challenging. However, by remaining calm, listening carefully, showing empathy and ensuring emergency or professional support is available, first aiders and first responders can play an important role in helping keep the person safe.
Early intervention, compassionate communication and prompt access to professional support can make a significant difference during a mental health crisis.
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