Published online by Cambridge University Press: 13 June 2014
Suicidal behaviour is a major public health problem worldwide, both with regard to mortality and treatment of clients who have deliberately harmed themselves. It is a multifaceted problem resulting from complex interactions between social, biological and psychological factors. There is insufficient evidence on which to make firm recommendations about the most effective forms of treatment This is remarkable considering the extent of the problem worldwide, and the importance of dealing with it appropriately in order to prevent further suicides.