Self-harm in midlife: analysis using data from the Multicentre Study of Self-harm in England

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Mental Health Research

Background:

• Suicide rates in England are highest among midlife individuals (ages 40-59).
• Self-harm in this demographic has received limited research attention despite its strong association with suicide.
• This study aims to characterize midlife individuals presenting with self-harm and identify their treatment needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the characteristics of people in midlife who present to hospital following self-harm.
• To examine treatment needs within this population.
• To analyze trends and risk factors associated with self-harm in midlife.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Multicentre Study of Self-harm in England (2000-2013).
• Employed negative binomial regression for trend analysis and logistic regression for comparative analysis.
• Applied Cox proportional hazards models to assess self-harm repetition and suicide mortality.

Main Results:

• Midlife individuals accounted for 26% of self-harm presentations (n=24,599).
• Self-harm incidence increased in men, correlating with national suicide rates, while remaining stable in women.
• Men presenting with self-harm more frequently reported alcohol use, unemployment, and financial difficulties; women more often showed indicators of poor mental health.

Conclusions:

• Self-harm in midlife is a critical area for intervention.
• Addressing underlying issues such as alcohol use and economic factors is crucial for preventing further self-harm and suicide.
• Targeted interventions for midlife individuals are needed to reduce suicide risk.