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

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