Can Aftercare Following an Attempted Suicide Decrease the Risk of Deliberate Self-Harm Repetition?

Abstract

Background In Scotland, an estimated 68 individuals under the age of 25 attended accident and emergency (A&E) at least in the once three months prior to committing suicide between 2010 and 2012 (ISD 2014). Nurses and other healthcare professionals working in A&E departments have an important role in maintaining the wellbeing of deliberate self-harm (DSH) patients. A&E departments are in the frontline of treating a large number of DSH patients, they play an important role in suicide prevention and also in preventing repetition (Bridge et al. 2012; Ting et al. 2012). Given that A&E departments are often the initial step in the care for young adults presenting with DSH, it is essential aftercare is offered as a possible solution to prevent repetition. Aims This research proposal aims to examine the support and aftercare given to young adults presenting to accident and emergency after attempted suicide. The intention would be to establish the levels of aftercare offered to young adults and discover whether a link exists between the absence of aftercare and increased DSH repetition rates. Methods The study would be conducted using an interpretive qualitative approach and an inductive research design. The method of data collection would consist of semistructured interviews, comprising of open questions, to gain an insight into the experiences of young adults who have deliberately self harmed. The results would be used to discover if young people receive aftercare and if this reduces the likelihood of repetition. It is hoped the proposed study would raise awareness of the importance of aftercare for those presenting with DSH.