Accurate, current data on the clinical epidemiology of deliberate self-harm are not widely available. Predictive values of sociodemographic risk factors for repetition of deliberate self-harm are weak and more may be gained by further examination of clinical and psychological factors. Psychiatric intervention after deliberate self-harm is worthwhile but the evidence about prevention of repetition remains inconclusive for most patients. Assessment after deliberate self-harm is often inadequate; perhaps clearly defined service standards will help.