Who is at risk of self-harm and suicide?

A number of factors have been found to be associated with self-harm and suicide. These include:

  • Being female (self-harm) and male (suicide)
  • Depression and low self-esteem
  • Past abuse or trauma
  • Gender orientation
  • Drug and alcohol misuse
  • Poor parental mental health
  • Previous experience of suicide or self-harm
  • Interpersonal difficulties and bullying
  • Family problems

Last updated: 15 August, 2016