Northern Ireland's mental health champion said the figures represent the 'tip of a huge iceberg of psychological pain, crisis and often, mental illness in our society'.
Around 25 cases of self-harm are recorded on average at hospital emergency departments in Northern Ireland every day, new statistics show.
"Self-harm is a way of coping with overwhelming pressure and pain, and is, for some, a way of staying alive. However it increases the risk of death by suicide and it is vital that services are equipped to meet the needs of these very vulnerable individuals." Independent MLA Claire Sugden, who received the figures in response to a written Assembly question, described the scale of the problem as "horrific".
"These issues will not be fixed overnight. It is a shame that we are finding ourselves in this situation.The East Londonderry MLA added: "It's too late to address the symptoms of it. We have to understand why it's happening in the first place. It requires an Executive to do something." But she said extra funding is needed to continue rolling out the plans, adding: "I am concerned that these funds have not yet been secured.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Brandon Lewis moves to cut MLA pay unless Stormont restored soonNorthern Ireland secretary says he will move to cut assembly members' pay if devolution is not restored at Stormont soon BrandonLewis
Read more »
David Trimble portrait unveiled at Queen's UniversityPortrait of former first minister and uuponline leader David Trimble unveiled at Queen's University (QUBelfast) in honour of his work on the Northern Ireland peace process
Read more »
Northern Ireland Protocol Bill is 'illegal and unrealistic', EU envoy warnsJoao Vale de Almeida argues steps being taken by Boris Johnson's administration over the agreement are 'a road to nowhere', but secretary of state Brandon Lewis says action is needed to fix the 'substantial problems' caused by its implementation.
Read more »
How two friends turned a clapped out NI school bus into a dream homeCarpenter Alex did most of the work during lockdown after craving a creative project to keep him active
Read more »
'Boris Johnson is Boris Johnson': Minister defends PM after pledge not to changeNorthern Ireland secretary Brandon Lewis has defended Boris Johnson's pledge not to 'psychologically transform' following two by-election defeats and the resignation of the Tory Party chairman.
Read more »
Theresa May hits out at 'illegal' plan to override Brexit dealThe ex-PM is among Tories voicing concerns at plans to scrap parts of the deal on Northern Ireland.
Read more »