Understanding and Responding to Self-harm : The One Stop Guide: Practical Advice for Anybody Affected by Self-harm

Self-harm is increasingly prevalent in our society. But few of us understand why, or know what to do to help ourselves, friends or family in such situations. It can be very isolating.

Understanding and Responding to Self-Harm aims to fill this gap, providing practical information and advice for anyone who has an experience of self-harm.

Showing the various forms self-harm can take, this book explores the reasons behind it, and offers advice on self-management, support to others, and what services are available. Full of clear, thoughtful advice for those who may be thinking of harming themselves, or have already done so, as well as guidance for families and friends on helpful strategies and responses - and ones to avoid - it uses evidence from research and direct experience to provide an essential resource.

Professor Allan House specialises in the overlap between physical and mental disorders, suicide and self-harm. He trained in medicine at St Bartholomew's Hospital in London, and is Professor of Liaison Psychiatry and Head of the Division of Psychological and Social Medicine at the University of Leeds. He serves on many expert committees and has co-authored several introductory texts for doctors.