Trends in Deliberate Self-Harm in Oxford, 1985-1995: Implications for Clinical Services and the Prevention of Suicide

Data collected by the Oxford Monitoring System for Attempted Suicide were used to review trends in deliberate self-harm between 1985-1995. A substantial increase was observed in deliberate self-harm rates during the 11-year period, with a higher increase in male rates than female. The largest increase was among 15-24-year-old males. Changes in deliberate self-harm rates correlated with changes in national suicide rates in both genders in this age group. Rates of repetition also increased.