Self-harm is a behaviour that is both complex and widely misunderstood. It is prevalent among many individuals, especially adolescents and young adults, and is closely linked to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, due to the stigma attached to it, self-harm is often subject to misconceptions and judgmental attitudes, which only worsens the problem.
The Brain and Mind Institute recently hosted a compelling workshop for people with lived experiences. These individuals have experienced the devastating impact of suicide, suicide-lived experiences, or incidents of self-harm. The event coincided with Self-Injury Awareness Day, celebrated annually on March 1.
During the workshop, BMI researchers presented insights on self-harm during the session that brought together persons with lived experiences, policymakers, researchers and providers of service who specialize in supporting individuals affected by suicide loss and self-harm. The research interviewed people with lived suicide experiences through focus group discussions.
In the focus group discussions, several issues emerged regarding mental health care. For example, inadequate training of health care workers in managing suicide risk poses a challenge. The public is also not well-informed about available resources and services, leading to the underutilization of mental health care options. At the same time, unfulfilled policy promises add to the frustration. Cultural barriers further hinder the adoption of healthy coping mechanisms, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive approaches to mental health care..
The insights provided by individuals with lived experiences can be highly informative in shaping effective suicide prevention strategies, treatment, policy, and aftercare support.
"Interventions tailored to persons with lived suicide experiences must be considered in order to develop more personalized treatment plans. This is the single most significant implication for mental health professionals and policymakers," said Prof Lukoye Atwoli, Deputy Director of the Brain and Mind Institute and Dean of the Medical College at the Aga Khan University.
BMI not only launched the insights but also organized a round table discussion to delve into the topic of self-harm and the prevailing societal attitudes towards it. The ultimate objective was to foster empathy and compassion towards individuals who engage in self-harm by shedding light on the root causes of such behavior. "Identifying our allies and developing practical ways to involve them in mental health issues can promote empathy among policymakers. Empathy, in turn, can potentially strengthen positive behaviour," said Dannish Odongo, a Mental Health Advocate, during the panel discussion.
The overarching goal is to break down the stigma associated with self-harm and promote a culture of empathy and understanding. By the end of the discussion, the participants' better-understood self-harm and were better equipped to support those who engage in self-harm. "As an organization, we strive to increase understanding of self-harm while providing the necessary psycho-social support. Our ultimate goal is to improve the well-being of those in need," said Amisa Rashid, the Executive Director of the Nivishe Foundation.
Involving individuals who have lived through the experience of suicide in prevention initiatives can greatly enhance their effectiveness. By drawing on their personal understanding and knowledge of the journey, we can design prevention planning, treatment, and education that better addresses the needs of those at risk of suicide. This approach can lead to improved care and safety, ultimately reducing suicidal ideation and deaths. Additionally, individuals with lived experience can provide hope and resilience to those struggling with suicidal thoughts and support those in the process of recovery.
