Self Harm and Suicide

The media has made it clear that in the case of Derrick Bird, self harm was no longer functioning properly as a coping mechanism.  His history of self harm was visible on his arms which were scarred with marks of his cutting.  He had reached a mental stage where he was no longer able to cope.  His coping strategy was no longer working for him effectively.  Bird had taken a big leap from having difficulties coping to being unable to cope.  The Express wrote on his attempt to commit suicide prior to his multiple murders and suicide.  This was prevented by friends.  

The question to be asked is when does the act of self harm become an attempt to commit suicide?  And how strongly are these two linked?  Is suicide a risk taken when self harming or is it the desired outcome?

The easiest answer would be to say that it is different for each scenario, which it undoubtedly is.  However, this question is one that should be approached, especially by organisations such as the NHS, who work to keep the nation healthy.  A one size fits all action will not work in such a complex scenario.   

If self harm was seen as an attempt to commit suicide in every scenario, this could cause further problems.  For many the act of self harm is used to cope with situations that are otherwise too difficult to comprehend.  

However, the case of Derrick Bird has brought to everyone's attention, the possible problems which can result from the provision of support being lacking.  Claims were documented in The Express that Bird visited West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven.  He was told that he needed to see his GP "for that kind of thing."  It seems that the NHS is not able, or ineffectively organised to deal with health issues that stem from the psychological.

In late Summer, Step Up! International will be publishing findings on the way self harm is dealt with in the NHS in the Birmingham area.

If nothing else the case of Derrick Bird demonstrates the need for an organisation like Step Up! International, a specialised company, equipped to deal with the issue of self harm from a psychological perspective.