How GPs can help young people avoid future self-harm: a qualitative study

Self-harm is a growing problem in young people. GPs are usually the first point of healthcare contact for young people aged 16-25 years, after self-harm. GPs can experience barriers to supporting young people and behaviour change theory can help to understand these, and the influences on, GP behaviour.

To explore the capabilities, opportunities, and motivations (COM-B model of behaviour) of GPs, and their perceived training needs, to help young people aged 16-25 years avoid future self-harm.

This was a qualitative study of GPs in England.

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with NHS GPs who were purposively sampled. Interviews occurred in 2021. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and mapped onto the COM-B model domains. The study's patient and public involvement group supported data analysis.

Fifteen interviews were completed. Four themes were generated. GPs described mixed capabilities, with many feeling they had the physical and psychological skills to support young people to avoid future self-harm, but some felt doing so was emotionally tiring. GPs identified opportunities to better support young people, such as use of electronic consultation tools, but cited lack of time as a concern. GPs reported motivation to help young people, but this can be influenced by their workload. Unmet training needs around communication, knowledge, and optimising safety were identified.

GPs are supported by their practice teams to support young people after self-harm, but a lack of time hinders opportunities to do so. Future effective GP-led interventions may improve GP motivation to support young people after self-harm.