Understanding adult self-harm in a community sample

Objectives
It is important to understand the populations that do not report to clinical services for self-harm and whose experiences remain hidden at a community level. This study aimed to identify the self-reported functions of self-harm for adults who self-harm in the community, and to explore their thoughts on the relationship between suicide and self-harm.
Design and Method
A qualitative design was adopted, with reflexive thematic analysis. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 23 adults (18+) who had accessed support from voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations for self-harm. Data were collected through online interviews, which were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim.
Results
Two themes emerged from the analysis: meaning behind the cuts, and a matter of life and death. In addition to managing distress and regulating emotions, a myriad of reasons were reported for the function of self-harm. Not all self-harm is intentional suicide; in fact, self-harm can be a protective factor against suicide. However, for some people self-harm is related to suicide ideation and the desire want to end life.
Conclusion
Motivations for self-harm and its relationship to suicide are complex and idiosyncratic. A person-centred approach to support individuals who self-harm can offer opportunities to reduce stigma, promote help-seeking behaviours, and lead to more meaningful support that aligns with the underlying reasons for self-harm.