Citation

Read SL. Br. Med. J. BMJ 2005; 331(7522): 966.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1136/bmj.331.7522.966-c

PMID

16239706

PMCID

PMC1261236

Abstract

The idea of using postcards to reduce repetition of deliberate self harm is good, but it cannot be delivered to the entire population of those who self harm. We looked at the incidence of deliberate overdose in our population of homeless patients from 1999 to 2003. There were 177 episodes in 116 patients, out of a population of 1617. This translated to an incidence of 7.2%, higher than that in the general population. Taking an overdose, and other forms of self harm, are more common in homeless people, many of whom have multiple illness. Some can be followed up through support workers, while others remain chaotic and at risk. Postcards and text messages may help some to make contact, but others will remain uncontactable.