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Deliberate self harm: the hidden population
Health Trends
|December 9, 1994
Summary
Homeless individuals are often excluded from studies on deliberate self harm (DSH). This study found 15% of DSH patients in an inner London hospital were homeless, highlighting the need for better research methods to prevent suicide in this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Population-based studies on deliberate self harm (DSH) often exclude homeless individuals.
- Homeless populations are frequently treated for DSH in inner-city hospitals.
- The homeless may face a higher risk of eventual suicide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the demographic characteristics of patients presenting with DSH.
- To identify the prevalence of homelessness among DSH patients in an inner London hospital.
- To advocate for alternative research methodologies for studying DSH in the homeless.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patient data over a three-year period.
- Inclusion of all patients presenting to an inner London hospital following an episode of DSH.
- Focus on demographic characteristics, specifically noting 'no fixed abode' status.
Main Results:
- Fifteen percent (15%) of all patients presenting with DSH were identified as having no fixed abode.
- This indicates a significant underrepresentation of the homeless in typical DSH epidemiological surveys.
- The findings underscore the clinical reality of DSH within the homeless community.
Conclusions:
- Standard epidemiological surveys fail to represent the homeless population regarding DSH.
- A substantial proportion of DSH patients in inner-city settings are homeless.
- Developing alternative study methods is crucial for suicide prevention among the homeless.
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