Suicide and Self Harm Flashcards

1
Q

Definition

A
  • Self harm is the act of harming yourself as a means of dealing with difficult feelings = viewed as a coping mechanism for underlying emotional or psychological distress.
  • May be performed with suicidal intent or not. Individuals may experience a short sense of release after self harming, however individuals can become dependent on the acts.
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2
Q

Epidemiology + Risk factors

A
  • Age: more prevalent in adolescents and young adults
  • Past history of trauma or abuse
  • Co-existing mental health conditions
  • Access to controlled drugs
  • Economic instability
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3
Q

Signs

A

Examples of self harm include:
- Cutting own skin with a sharp object, e.g. razor blade or pencil
- Hitting or punching self, or hitting self against a wall
- Burning own skin, e.g. with a lighter or candle
- Applying tight ligatures to own skin

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4
Q

Diagnosis

A
  • Psychiatric assessment:
    To assess the mental state and risk of further self-harm or suicide
    Activities associated with completing suicide include:
    Leaving a suicide note or changing a will
    Purchasing a gun, rope or medications
    Putting finances in order
    Wound culture: if signs of infection are present, if self-harm involves damage to skin
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5
Q

Management

A
  • CBT
  • Antidepressants: SSRI fluoxetine
  • Wound care
  • Crisis helpline
  • Applying a Mental Health Act section
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6
Q

Complications

A
  • Wound infection
  • Permanent scarring or disfigurement
  • Progression to suicidal behavior
  • Emotional deterioration: if not adequately managed
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