%0 Journal Article
%T Working with young people at risk of suicidal behaviour and self-harm: a qualitative study of Australian general practitioners' perspectives
%J International journal of environmental research and public health
%D 2021
%A Bellairs-Walsh, India
%A Byrne, Sadhbh J.
%A Bendall, Sarah
%A Perry, Yael
%A Krysinska, Karolina
%A Lin, Ashleigh
%A Michail, Maria
%A Lamblin, Michelle
%A Li, Tina Yutong
%A Hetrick, Sarah
%A Robinson, Jo
%V 18
%N 24
%P e12926-e12926
%X General Practitioners (GPs) play a crucial role in the identification and support of young people at risk of suicidal behaviour and self-harm; however, no studies have explored GPs' perspectives, approaches, challenges, and resource needs when working with this cohort in an Australian setting. This was a qualitative study where fifteen GPs (Mage = 45.25 years) from multiple clinics in Western Australia took part in semi-structured interviews, and data were analysed thematically. Seven main themes were identified: (1) working with young people has its unique challenges; (2) screening and assessment tools can help to manage uncertainty and discomfort; (3) going beyond tools-the dialogue and relationship are most important; (4) there are limits to what we can offer in the time available; (5) the service access and referral pathways lack clarity and coordination; (6) the provision of mental health support should not fall on GPs alone; and (7) more comprehensive training in suicide and self-harm is needed. The findings highlight a number of opportunities to enhance care and better assist GPs working with young people who present with suicidal behaviour and self-harm, including considerations for conducting assessments, targeted resources such as training, and system and service improvements.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>
%G en
%I MDPI: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute
%@ 1661-7827
%U http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182412926