Adolescent self-harm: a school-based study in Northern Ireland.

Area of Science:

• Adolescent mental health
• Psychological epidemiology
• Conflict studies

Background:

• The prevalence and contributing factors of adolescent self-harm in Northern Ireland (NI) were previously unknown.
• NI's history of conflict necessitates an investigation into its potential impact on youth mental health.
• Understanding these factors is vital for developing targeted mental health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of self-harm among adolescents in Northern Ireland.
• To identify factors associated with adolescent self-harm, including exposure to the NI conflict.
• To inform risk assessment and prevention strategies for youth self-harm.

Main Methods:

• An observational study involving 3596 school pupils.
• Anonymous self-report surveys collected data on demographics, lifestyle, life events, conflict exposure, social/internet influences, and psychological variables.
• Analysis included univariate and multivariate assessments of self-harm risk factors.

Main Results:

• 10% of respondents reported self-harm.
• Exposure to the NI conflict was associated with self-harm.
• Key factors included bullying, exposure to self-harm, alcohol/drug use, abuse, self-esteem, exercise, sexual orientation concerns, anxiety, impulsivity, and internet/social media influences.
• Specific risk factors varied between genders.

Conclusions:

• The rate of adolescent self-harm in NI was lower than in other parts of the UK/Ireland.
• Established risk factors, alongside conflict exposure and new technologies, require consideration in risk assessments.
• Further research into the legacy of the NI conflict and the impact of digital technologies on youth mental health is urgently needed.