More than 1,100 people were admitted to hospitals in Hertfordshire as a result of self-harming in the space of a year, a report has revealed.
The study showed people aged between 10 and 29 are most at risk, with admissions most common for women.
County Hall health chiefs were told last week more needs to be done to support people who self-harm.
It came after figures showed there were 1,151 hospital admissions for people registered with a GP practice in Hertfordshire in 2012/13 – the most recent data available.
The document, presented to Hertfordshire County Council’s public health and localism panel, said studies by children’s charity the NSPCC had outlined reasons for self-harming.
It said: “These included low job prospects, stress or worry about academic performance at school or university, bullying, difficulties associated with sexuality, problems with race/culture/religion, dysfunctional relationships and low self-esteem.”
But it ruled that the number of self-harm admissions is “substantially lower” than the English national average.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here