Self-harm and suicide prevention

Self-harm is when someone deliberately hurts or mutilates their body without meaning to die, although death may still occur as a result of the selfharming behaviour. Self-harming is a behaviour and not in itself a diagnosable mental disorder. Self-harm often occurs in young people who experience depression, anxiety, behavioural problems (such as conduct disorder) and substance use.

This factsheet explores reasons for self-harm in young people to help us understand and respond appropriately, drawing on the latest evidence from research.