G619(P) The experience of young people admitted to the general paediatric ward due to self-harm or suicidal ideation

Abstract

Aim To understand the experiences of young people admitted to our paediatric ward due to self-harm or suicidal ideation. Background The UK has one of the highest rates of self-harm in Europe (400 episodes per 1 00 000 people).1 Self-harm is a common presentation to acute paediatrics and is often managed in paediatric emergency departments and on general paediatric wards. Self-harm is often stigmatized, even by healthcare professionals. Unhelpful attitudes and poor understanding amongst professionals have been reported by patients.2 A negative experience may add to a young person’s feelings of guilt or shame and prevent them seeking help in the future. A positive one may be the start of helpful interventions. Methods Paper surveys were given to patients on the paediatric ward who had presented with self-harm or suicidal ideation. Results 35 young people completed the survey. Table 1. shows reasons for attending hospital (some reported multiple reasons) Of the respondents; 26 were presenting to hospital, due to self-harm or suicidal ideation, for the first time. 8 had presented before and 1 did not answer the question. 25 felt they had been treated the same as people presenting to hospital with physical complaints, 2 felt they had been treated differently and 3 were unsure. 29 felt they had been listened to and none felt they hadn’t been. The majority reported that no one had said anything particularly hurtful and 22 respondents felt that someone had been of particular help. 29 out of 30 respondents felt that their confidentiality was respected. 14 respondents said that they would feel comfortable coming back to the hospital in a similar situation, 7 would not and 10 said maybe they would. Conclusions Although 35 responses represents a small sample of patients admitted with self-harm, responses suggest that their experiences have been more positive than expected. The majority of respondents felt that they had been listened to and received the help they needed. References Hawton K, et al. Deliberate self-harm in adolescents (a study of characteristics and trends in Oxford, 1990–2000). J Child Psychol Psychiatry2003;44:1191–1198. Self-harm, suicide and risk: a summary. Position statement PS3/2010 July 2010 Royal College of Psychiatrists, London.