Prevalence and correlates of domestic violence among people seeking treatment for self-harm: data from a regional self-harm register

BACKGROUND: Previous research suggests that there is an association between domestic violence (DV) and self-harm (SH). Yet, the prevalence and clinical significance of DV among individuals presenting acutely to hospital with self-harm in the UK is unknown.

METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study using registry data in order to describe the prevalence of DV within a UK population of individuals presenting to the emergency department (ED) with SH (n=1142).

RESULTS: 11.1% (95% CI 9.4% – 13.1%) of the sample reported DV. Those reporting DV were more likely to be female and separated from a partner. DV was associated with self-poisoning and with previous occurrence of SH.

CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that DV victimisation is more prevalent among those presenting to ED with self-harm compared the general population of ED attenders, and that the presence of DV may signify increased risk among those presenting to ED with SH.