How GPs can help young people avoid future self-harm: a qualitative study.

Abstract

Background: Self-harm is a growing problem in young people. GPs are usually the first point of healthcare contact for young people aged 16-25 years, after self-harm. GPs can experience barriers to supporting young people and behaviour change theory can help to understand these, and the influences on, GP behaviour.

Aim: To explore the capabilities, opportunities, and motivations (COM-B model of behaviour) of GPs, and their perceived training needs, to help young people aged 16-25 years avoid future self-harm.

Design and setting: This was a qualitative study of GPs in England.

Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with NHS GPs who were purposively sampled. Interviews occurred in 2021. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and mapped onto the COM-B model domains. The study's patient and public involvement group supported data analysis.

Results: Fifteen interviews were completed. Four themes were generated. GPs described mixed capabilities, with many feeling they had the physical and psychological skills to support young people to avoid future self-harm, but some felt doing so was emotionally tiring. GPs identified opportunities to better support young people, such as use of electronic consultation tools, but cited lack of time as a concern. GPs reported motivation to help young people, but this can be influenced by their workload. Unmet training needs around communication, knowledge, and optimising safety were identified.

Conclusion: GPs are supported by their practice teams to support young people after self-harm, but a lack of time hinders opportunities to do so. Future effective GP-led interventions may improve GP motivation to support young people after self-harm.