Introduction

In this introduction, key terms are introduced to the reader around self-harm and suicide. Recognition is given to the way in which health practitioners will sometimes experience people who self-harm or who have suicidal thoughts as a challenge in everyday practice. The introduction also seeks to promote understanding of some of the challenges experienced by patients and service users, calling upon nurses and allied health practitioners to work in compassionate ways, equipping and empowering patients to manage their difficulties differently. A brief overview is provided of each chapter, together with a discussion on appropriate language to use about self-harm and suicide, and notes on terminology used within the book.