The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) published by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) has found high rates of self-harm and suicidal behaviour among teenagers 14-15 years old. One in ten teenagers 14-15 years old reported self-harm in the previous 12 months, with five percent reporting attempted suicide. Risk factors were found to include gender, with girls far more likely to attempt premeditated self-harm; identifying as same-sex attracted, bisexual, or unsure of sexuality; pre-existing temperamental and mood disturbances including depression and anxiety; feeling bullied; and being involved with criminal activity. Read the full chapter on young people and self-harm from the published study for more details.
