Abstract: This study aims to describe the socio-demographic characteristics of clients attending Croydon & Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham (LSL) Drug Treatment and Testing Orders Services (DTTO) who have a history of Deliberate Self-Harm (DSH), and to illustrate the correlation between DSH and substance misuse in this client group. In addition, the study will explore the co-morbidity of DSH with depression or impulsivity in this client group. Sixty consecutive clients attending the Croydon and LSL DTTO Services were recruited and assessed for DSH. A self-report semi-structured questionnaire, in three parts, was used. In addition two standardised questionnaires: The Beck Depression Inventory Scale (BDI) and the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) were used. The result showed that the study group (n=60) was predominantly male (Male 53: Female 7), unemployed and with no qualifications. The majority of the clients were referred to the DTTO service for shoplifting. This study revealed that the following substances (in descending order) were used: Cocaine/Crack, Heroin, Alcohol, Cannabis, Benzodiazepines and other substance. Of 60 clients, 39 had a history of DSH. Substance use was the main factor implicated in DSH. The study also showed that heroin users who deliberately self-harm are 9 times more likely to be alcohol users. The DSH clients scored higher in the severe impulsive category compared with the non-DSH group. However, there was no significant predictor for DSH in relation to demographic factors, type and route of substance use and impulsive or depression.
Keyword: Deliberate Self-Harm, Substance Use, Impulsivity & Depression
Title: History of Deliberate Self–Harm in Clients Attending Two London-based Drug Treatment and Testing Orders (DTTO) Services
Author: Samia Abul
International Journal of Healthcare Sciences
ISSN 2348-5728 (Online)
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