Self-harm in young people: the exceptional potential of the general practice consultation.

Abstract

Self-harm in young people is becoming increasingly prevalent and we are pleased it is receiving greater health policy and research focus.1,2 The recent editorial by Bailey et al describes the challenge of dealing with self- harm in young people in general practice.3 We agree that managing young people who self-harm within the 10-minute general practice consultation can be a challenge. However, we would like to highlight available opportunities that will enable GPs to maximise the exceptional potential of the general practice consultation.4 Self-harm is complex, multifaceted, multifactorial, and a major risk factor for suicide and all-cause and cause-specific mortality in young people.2 Young people (aged ≤25 years) today are likely navigating several life transitions that can be stressful, often immersed in educational, employment, family, and social situations that may pose a significant threat to their mental health. Both self-harm and suicide increase sharply in the mid-teenage years, so this is a vital time to support and intervene with young people who may be struggling and/or in distress.5 The mental health of young people is a leading national priority. Several recent policy documents highlight this, with the government’s 2017 green paper leading the way.1 Mental illness is associated with significant costs to individuals and society. We know that 75% of mental ill- health begins before the age of 24 years so early interventions are key in preventing debilitating mental illness into and throughout adulthood.1 The government has allocated £1.4 billion to children and young people’s mental health care over the next few years, and local transformation plans include the mental health of children and young people.1 The green paper aims …