Abstract
Answer B. Offer self-help websites/leaflets and arrange appropriate follow-up
When adolescents present with self-harm, the degree of physical harm is the first consideration. In this scenario the wounds seem superficial and do not require any further assessment or management. Risk should then be assessed accurately. This involves investigating the details of the episode, any depressive symptoms and factors known to increase suicide risk. This patient is more likely to be low risk. For low-risk adolescents, a problem-focused approach is recommended. For high-risk adolescents, children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) involvement is appropriate and can offer specific interventions such as group therapy, family therapy or cognitive-behavioural therapy.
InnovAiT article: Self-harm in adolescence. DOI: