Understanding and Responding to Self-Harm

This is a must-read book for anyone who has been affected by self-harm. It distils a wealth of knowledge and understanding into a jargon-free text.' Else Guthrie, Professor of Psychological Medicine, University of Leeds

Self-harm is increasingly prevalent in our society. But few of us understand why, or know what to do to help ourselves, friends or family in such situations. It can be very isolating.

Understanding and Responding to Self-Harm aims to fill this gap, providing practical information and advice for anyone who has an experience of self-harm.

Showing the various forms self-harm can take, this book explores the reasons behind it, and offers advice on self-management, support to others, and what services are available. Full of clear, thoughtful advice for those who have harmed themselves, as well as for families and friends on helpful strategies and responses - and ones to avoid - it uses evidence from research and direct experience to provide an essential resource.

'I haven't come across anything quite like this before - it's great. The book will also help carers to understand, and health professionals to provide, the high-quality care that people deserve.' Nav Kapur, Professor of Psychiatry and Population Health, University of Manchester