There are 14 million episodes of self-harm every year, but this condition remains widely neglected worldwide, according to a report published by Lancet. The report, carried out by a team from the University of Bristol, urges the development of new policies to improve the way health services respond to this pressing issue.
Self-harm is not considered a psychiatric diagnosis. It’s a response behaviour influenced by society, culture, and individual factors. Some factors, such as poverty, significantly influence the distribution of self-harm within communities.
This new report highlights how 14 million episodes of self-harm occur each year, with most cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and a higher incidence among young people. The authors point out that this figure is likely an underestimate because most people who self-harm don’t seek medical help, and there are few routine surveillance systems.
According to the authors, this is due to a lack of empathy in many healthcare settings, which often keeps people from seeking help. The report calls on governments to recognise the public health impact of self-harm, and the need for multiple outlets (inlcuding social media) to report and publicise information about self-harm in a responsibe and sympathetic manner.
“Self-harm signals deeper distress and affects millions globally, especially young people, yet it remains neglected due to stigma and lack of resources. This must change so that more people receive compassionate, tailored support,” concluded Professor Paul Moran from the Centre for Academic Mental Health in the Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences (PHS) at the University of Bristol.
Moran P (2024) The Lancet Commission on self-harm. The Lancet, Volume 404, Issue 10461, 1445 – 1492