A Qualitative Account of Young People’s Experiences Seeking Care from Emergency Departments for Self-Harm

Many young people who engage in self-harm do not seek help from health services. For those that do, emergency departments (EDs) are a key point of contact. Substantial gaps remain current knowledge related to consumers’ experiences and views on optimal treatment the ED. In this study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen (Mage = 21.2 years), engaged care at headspace early intervention centers had presented an ED self-inflicted physical injury. Participants asked describe their experience they received. Data analyzed thematically. Three inter-related themes identified: 1. The was experienced through lens significant distress, 2. environment processes counter-therapeutic, 3. Staff perceived be disinterested, dismissive, lacking knowledge. study highlights overwhelmingly negative nature participants’ experiences, presents recommendations for service practice improvements, such as provision staff training increased aftercare.