'Am I really the priority here?': help-seeking experiences of university students who self-harmed.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Self-harm is a significant problem in university students because of its association with emotional distress, physical harm, broader mental health issues and potential suicidality. Research suggests that fewer than half of students who have self-harmed seek professional help when at university.

Aims

This study aimed to explore the help-seeking journeys of university students who had engaged in self-harm, to identify perceived facilitators and barriers to securing both formal and informal support.

Method

Participants comprised 12 students who had self-harmed during their university tenure. Engaging in two semi-structured interviews over the academic year, they shared insights into their help-seeking behaviours and proposed enhancements to local services. Dat

SUBMITTER: Tickell A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10897682 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature