Systematic Review of Best Practice Guidance for Schools to Respond to Self-Harm

Self-harm rates among adolescents continue to increase globally, placing an increased demand on schools to respond to and manage young people who engage in self-harm. Schools in developed countries report being ill-equipped to manage self-harm, and unsure of how to use the evidence available to guide them. The methods used in this systematic review are based on Cochrane methodology. We conducted a search of peer-reviewed publications from three databases; PsycINFO, (OVID) MEDLINE and EMBASE published in English from 1990 until 30 September 2022 and completed a grey literature search via Google. Two authors (LB and SH) extracted data from publications that provides guidance, actions and/or recommendations to school-based professionals (any school staff including school pastoral care) on the management of self-harm. The breadth of recommendations made to schools are discussed. Studies suggest schools need specific advice about role and responsibility to effectively respond to and manage self-harm in school settings. Evidenced based, action-oriented guidelines for schools to respond to self-harm is required.