What criteria should I use to determine whether to refer a patient who has self-harmed to mental health services?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

Refer a patient who has self-harmed to mental health services if there is thought to be an immediate risk of self-harm or suicide, and in such cases, refer to a crisis resolution and home treatment team .

Make a referral to a community mental health team and/or psychology services if the person's levels of concern or distress are rising, high, or sustained, or if the frequency or degree of self-harm or suicidal intent is increasing, or if the person or their assessment provider is concerned ,.

Refer children and young people to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) if they are under 18 years old ,.

If there is a suspected mental health disorder of a severity or nature requiring specialist management, or high levels of distress, or increasing risk, or if the person requests intervention from specialist services, refer accordingly ,.

Additionally, refer to appropriate drug and alcohol services if misuse is involved .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.