Self-harm is on the rise — how can we make meaningful change?

Health Report - Separate stories podcast

The rate of self-harm among young people is rising, but despite this the issue remains neglected.

That's according to a major paper that has outlined what can be done by governments, services, the media and wider society to address the issue.

It recommends addressing social and cultural contributors to self-harm, and centring the voices of people with lived experience.

If you need support, you can contact Lifeline's crisis line on 13 11 14. Information and support is also available on Beyond Blue or Headspace.

Have you experienced thoughts of ending your life in the past six months but haven’t sought any support? The Black Dog Institute would like to hear from you. Find out more about the ‘Under the Radar' study.

Guests

• Scientia Professor Helen Christensen, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW
• Professor Paul Moran, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol

References

• The Lancet Commission on self-harm, Oct 2024
• Unhealthy influencers? Social media and youth mental health, accompanying Editorial in the Lancet