The reasons why people overdose are examined in relation to the results of a study of the input of self-harm patients into an accident & emergency department. A detailed analysis of patients, the sex/age distribution & the relation to their psychiatric history, was carried out. The effects of medicines & other substances taken in overdose were examined over a 20 year period. Specific treatment of these patients is seen in relation to the activities of the department as a whole. (2 refs)