Working With Self Harm and Suicidal Behaviour

Book excerpt: Suicide and self-harm are world-wide public health issues that can have devastating effects on families, friends and communities. They are both a priority for anyone working in mental health, social work, emergency departments and related fields, however suicidal and self-harming behaviour can take place anywhere anytime - it may be a pupil in a school, an inmate in a prison or a colleague or family member. For this reason, this book has been written in a clear, accessible and practical style for anyone who wants to learn more about working with and preventing suicidal and self-harming behaviour. - It identifies common risk and protective factors as well as specific warning signs of imminent suicidal behaviour - It provides essential communication skills for undertaking a risk assessment, illustrating how each skill can be used in real-life practice. - It looks specifically at the issue of self-harm and suicide in prisons, schools and emergency departments - It lays out clear strategies for identifying and addressing issues of self-care when working with people who are suicidal or who self-harm - It identifies how we can assist those who are bereaved following the death of a loved one by suicide Packed with learning outcomes, case scenarios and reflective questions, this book acts as a toolkit for anyone working in this difficult field.