Self-harm support system needs change

THE existing state support system for people who self-harm needs to be overhauled as it is too focused on crisis intervention and only allows access to help after they have been referred by non-specialised GPs.

The author of a new book on the condition – which involves a person cutting or injuring themselves as a release from pain – has concluded that funding problems and access difficulties are continuing to hamper the system.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Dr Kay Inckle, lecturer at the school of social work and social policy at Trinity College, said, despite improvements in supports available, the current service structure is not encouraging people to seek help.