A report issued today on self harm during 2020 found that the rate of individuals presenting to hospital following self harm that year was 3% lower than the rate in 2019.
The annual report by the National Self Harm Registry of Ireland used data from a sample of 22 hospitals around the country.
The report's authors say the find of no rise in self-harm rates during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic is reassuring however continued surveillance is important to monitor the potential impact of the pandemic on self-harm behaviour.
Among the key findings of the report was that the highest rates of self-harm were recorded in young people with intentional drug overdose the most common method of self-harm.
The trends highlighted in the report underline the need to further develop outpatient and in patient mental health services in Ireland for individuals engaging in self-harm, particularly vulnerable groups.
If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in this report you can contact Samaritans on 116 123.
