Launch of self harm in older people resources

Launched on the 1^st October 2025 – International Day of Older People – and following on from our earlier “Don’t Brush It Under the Carpet” campaign,  NHS GM working with the Mature Minds Matter lived experience group, have produced two booklets to support older adults who may self harm and the loved ones and professionals caring for them. The booklets aim to continue to raise awareness of self harm and older people. 

It is well documented that older people are less likely to access mental health support than younger adults and that self-harm is commonly thought to be experienced mainly by younger adults. However, older people may also experience self-harm, with older people who self-harm more likely to end their life by suicide and less likely to receive support around their self-harming behaviour.  

These two booklets contain information about what is meant by self-harm, how this might look different for older people, reasons it might be difficult to talk about self-harm and where people can get support. 

The booklet for professional carers and loved ones also gives information on how to talk to older people about self-harm. 

See links to the booklets below:

• Self Harm Loved Ones Carers and Professionals Booklet
• Self Harm Older People Booklet