How this fits in

Self-harm is the leading risk factor for suicide, with suicide being an increasing concern among older populations given the high suicide rates reported. Though research has shown that older adults who self-harm are in frequent contact with primary care owing to complex health conditions, to the authors’ knowledge, no research has explored the role of primary care in supporting this group. Using a qualitative approach, the presented study’s findings confirm that primary care is a potential avenue for effective self-harm management in older adults, and GPs are in a good position to manage and support older adults who self-harm. However, given the complex nature of self-harm, primary care may wish to work with other sectors (health, social, and third sectors) to comprehensively support older adults who self-harm, as recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.