self-harm

Child neglect is a global problem that involves large costs for both the individual and for society. This article is based on published reviews and meta-analyses in the field of child neglect between 1980 and 2018. Of a total of 433 articles, 13 was included, main Data bases has been PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Psych Info, ERIC, CINAHL. The prevalence in the normal population was found to be between 16% and 26%, while the prevalence in clinical groups seem to be significantly higher. For example, was the prevalence of neglect 50% among patients with eating disorder. It is especially important to know who is reporting neglect. Research shows that neglect is strongly associated with among other things, depression, one of the most common illnesses among the general public. The theoretical models that are used are ecological. Risk factors can be found at all levels when using ecological models. Research shows that factors involving the relationship parent-child are among the most important. Neglect is more common in low-income countries than in high income countries. Most studies point to the importance of prevention. Existing preventive programs are most often of family and parental character. More research is needed, especially as concerns the development of preventive programs that can identify specific types of neglect and present suitable preventive measures, both at the societal and family level. Key points 1. Neglect is a global problem. 2. Prevalence depends on the measurement method and can vary between about 16% and 76%. 3. Prevalence is higher when negligence is self-reported than when reported by professionals. 4. The most common and most serious risk factors are present in the microsystem. Parenting and interactions between child and parent are considered important. 5. There is a link between neglect and, above all, depression, but also anxiety, self-harm and eating disorders.

Introduction: There is increasing published evidence confirming the long-term adult mental and physical health impact of childhood exposure to adverse events including different forms of abuse and family dysfunction. Looked-after Children and young people (LACYP) living in public care are known to be a highly vulnerable group, who have often experienced several pre-care poor socio-economic and family circumstances with subsequent placement instability, as well as inadequate compensatory care within the social care system. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between the adverse socio-emotional risk factors experienced by a cohort of LACYP and their emotional, behavioural and physical health needs within a South-West England Local Authority between Jan and Dec 2018. Methods: We carried out a retrospective review of the medical records of all looked-after children and young people (LACYP) within one year (Jan to Dec 2018) at the North Somerset Local Authority (NSLA). This was an audit project of the LAC Health team completed as part of the Clinical Governance strategies of the NSLA. Results: 93% (89/96) of the LACYP experienced at least one or more socio-emotional adverse risk factors. The commonest socio-emotional risk factors recorded were parent-related including poor mental health (67%), neglectful parenting (59%), drugs/alcohol abuse (45%) and domestic violence (47%). Forty-six (48%) of the LACYP had at least one or more emotional problems, 48 (50%) had neurodevelopmental conditions, while 63 (66%) had at least one or more physical problems. The most common emotional needs were behavioural problems (35%), anxiety/ depression (17%), nicotine/substance misuse (10%) and self-harm (6%). Conclusion: High levels of physical, emotional, behavioral, developmental and neurodisability disorders are prevalent among LACYP due to their high vulnerabilities to adverse life experiences and trauma while living within their biological families. Present and future clinical implications of the socio-emotional risk factors and the need for more integrated multi-agency services for addressing the diverse health needs of the LACYP were discussed. What is known? • There is increasing awareness of the relationship between childhood exposure to adverse events and long-term adult mental and physical health • Looked after children and young people (LACYP) are highly vulnerable to early traumatic and poor socio-economic circumstances exposure What this study adds: • Over 90% of LACYP experienced at least one ACE which disproportionately affected the youngest age-group • Parental factors such as childhood abuse, alcohol/substance abuse and mental health problems were the most common adverse factors experienced by the LACYP

Introduction: Self-harm and depression are two related mental health issues that often co-occur and can have serious impacts on individuals and their well-being. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a complex and multifaceted mental health condition that is prevalent among young adults. It is a significant public health concern that affects individuals, families and society as a whole, contributing to considerable social, economic, and health-related costs. Despite the high prevalence of depression in young adults, there is a lack of understanding of its etiology, risk factors, and optimal treatment strategies. Self-harm behavior is a concerning manifestation of MDD that can have serious consequences, including injury, infection, or even death.Methods: In this article, we report a case of an MDD patient with self-harm behavior and discuss the assessment method and treatment options. Our aim is to raise awareness of these pathologies among psychiatrists and the general population and to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and effective treatment in reducing the risk of self-harm behavior and suicide.Conclusion: In light of the case presented, it is evident that early detection and targeted intervention are crucial in mitigating the risk of self-injurious behavior in MDD patients. The utilization of a comprehensive assessment methodology, inclusive of a thorough review of the patient’s clinical history and utilization of standardized rating scales, proved indispensable in the tailoring of an individualized treatment regimen. The amalgamation of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy proved to be a successful strategy in the amelioration of depressive symptoms and consequent self-harm behavior. As such, we trust that this case report will serve to sensitize clinicians to the importance of early identification and prompt management of these pathologies, in the quest for enhanced mental health outcomes.

The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and substance use behaviors has sparked extensive research efforts. The COMET-G international study, organized by the Department of Medicine and the Rectorate of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in collaboration with the World Psychiatric Association, delved into these issues. Running from March 2020 to April 2021, the study collected responses from 55,589 individuals across 40 countries. Through a comprehensive questionnaire, participants provided insights into their mental state, attitudes toward the pandemic, and the resultant changes in their personal and daily lives. Findings revealed, among other things, significant patterns of change in substance use, with notable correlations between reduced usage and the severity of lockdown measures among non-binary individuals. Mental health history emerged as a strong predictor of substance use changes, with influences from anxiety disorders, depression, and self-harm. Additionally, family and social dynamics, including economic expectations and household composition, significantly shaped substance use behaviors during lockdowns. Given these findings, the development of comprehensive approaches targeting the adverse effects of the pandemic on individual behaviors and general welfare is crucial.