Self-harm stitches
Question
If you self-harm and accidentally cut too deep and need stitches, should you admit to the hospital that it was down to self-harm? I've heard stories of people getting treated really badly by hospital staff because they harmed themselves on purpose. Would the hospital make a note on your medical records that you self-harm, so that your GP can see? Also, do they make you speak to a psychiatrist?
Answer
Self-harm is often a way for people to cope with and get through difficult emotions or situations. Difficult feelings are quite often the reason why people self harm, as a means of communicating what they cannot put into words or even into thoughts. It may also be a way of releasing painful emotions such as rage, sadness, emptiness, guilt or fear. Since it's generally a private coping mechanism rather than a method of attention-seeking, some people feel ashamed and unable to admit to anyone what they are doing.
Self-harm can take the form of cutting. Sometimes people may cut too deeply and should seek medical attention at the accident and emergency department of a local hospital. The wound will be treated accordingly but if hospital staff are informed by the patient that the injury was caused by an act of self-harm, the patient may be offered the opportunity to see a psychiatrist for further help and support. Unless the hospital is informed of the doctor (GP) the patient is registered with, records may not be passed on.
It is important to know the role of a psychiatrist is to assess the symptoms a patient is experiencing and work with them to explore the options of support and treatment available to them. There may be certain underlying issues surrounding a person's self-harming behaviour, such as anxiety or depression. There are a number of ways of treating depression and anxiety, both with and without medication. A GP or psychiatrist will be able to discuss the medical and talking treatment options available, such as anti-depressants or cognitive behaviour therapy.
While it's not possible to guarantee how the attitude of all hospital staff towards the subject of self-harm may be, there does continue to exist many myths surrounding the issue among professionals who know very little about it. This is changing though, and there is an increasing awareness and understanding of self-harming behaviour.
For further information and support regarding self-harm, you might like to consider visiting the National Self Harm Network, an organisation providing support to people who self-harm. Its website features a range of resources and also includes a message board.
Alternatively, you might like to talk in confidence and without judgement to a volunteer at Sane on 0845 767 8000. Its helpline is available to anyone experiencing a mental health issue.
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Question answered by SANE
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