University students’ experiences and perceptions of interventions for self-harm

Abstract

This study sought to understand students’ experiences and perceptions of interventions for self-harm, including what aims of the interventions they felt would be the most beneficial. 25 students with experience of self-harm thoughts/behaviours participated. The data were thematically analysed and three key themes were identified: ‘understanding self-harm’, ‘barriers to seeking support’, and ‘preferences in support’. Given the variation in preferences for support and the barriers faced when seeking it, the importance of providing options was highlighted. Students suggested that focusing on reducing the frequency of self-harm may not be a helpful goal or accurately indicate recovery. They instead emphasised the importance of addressing other factors such as wider mental health and coping ability.