Case studies in adolescent deliberate self-harm

Four adolescents admitted to a general paediatric ward at a teaching hospital with deliberate self-harm were reviewed. Their initial psychosocial assessment was noted together with their subsequent course 12 months later. Despite an extensive assessment by a multidisciplinary team during the initial admission, follow-up 12 months later revealed that each subject appeared to have ongoing problems. This outcome raised doubts as to the appropriateness and effectiveness of a prolonged hospital admission in their initial assessment. The difficulties encountered with their management are highlighted.