Primary care clinical management following self-harm during the first wave of COVID-19 in the UK: population-based cohort study.
Sarah SteegMatthew CarrLaszlo TrefanDarren AshcroftNavneet KapurEmma NielsenBrian McmillanRoger WebbPublished in: BMJ open (2022)
Despite the challenges experienced by primary healthcare teams during the initial COVID-19 wave, prescribing and consultation patterns following self-harm were broadly similar to prepandemic levels. We found no evidence of widening of digital exclusion in terms of access to remote consultations. However, the reduced likelihood of referral to mental health services warrants attention. Accessible outpatient and community services for people who have self-harmed are required as the COVID-19 crisis recedes and the population faces new challenges to mental health.