First Aid

If you're using self-harm as a coping mechanism, it's vital that you take good care of your injuries, including seeking medical help where necessary. The links on this page provide basic first aid information, plus some advice on what to do in an emergency.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. Please do not substitute anything on this page for seeking appropriate medical treatment. If in doubt about how to treat your injuries, see a doctor, nurse or go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department or equivalent.

First Aid for Self-Injury
Comprehensive first aid information, including how to know when you need medical help and when cuts need stitches.

 
Emergencies

If you have harmed yourself seriously and cannot deal with your injuries yourself, or if you have overdosed, go straight to your nearest A&E department or equivalent. Ring for an ambulance if necessary. The following links provide more information about what to expect.

Getting medical help for injuries
What to expect in the UK.

What to expect in the emergency department  
US-based information, which also includes a lot of helpful advice whatever country you're in.

Accident and Emergency departments (UK)
Enter your postcode here to find your nearest A&E department.


Problems When Seeking Help

Unfortunately, people who self-harm sometimes run into problems when seeking emergency treatment for their injuries. Here are some links you may find helpful in these circumstances.

NICE guidelines for self-harm
UK guidelines on how self-inflicted injuries should be treated.

Complaints about NHS services
Information on making a complaint about treatment under the NHS.

Bill of Rights for people who self-harm
A proposed bill of rights for self-injurers. You might like to print this out and take it along with you.