We know it’s hard to go to your doctor, we know it’s hard to talk about self-injury and the distressing things behind it. At LifeSIGNS, we believe that getting help and support is a brave step forward, and something that has benefited many of our members once they’ve found the strength to take that step.

We can now help you move towards seeking help by offering the services of our friend and colleague, Dr. Neil (MB ChB, Psychiatrist). Neil has been working in psychiatry for over 10 years with a special interest in self-injury throughout his career. We’ve worked together for several years now training doctors and developing the LifeSIGNS handbook. We’re thrilled that Dr. Neil has offered to answer questions from our members in each edition of our Newsletter, LifeSHINES.

Dr. Neil will be happy to tackle any of your concerns relating to self-injury, and will be able to offer guidance on how to get help and support from the NHS, as well as offering general guidance about your mental state and self-injurious behaviour.

“Everyone’s situation is different, and there are no magic answers that can make everything or everyone better, but I hope my ideas and suggestions can help people reflect and take action to improve their health and well-being.”
Dr. Neil

The first questions and answers will be in the April edition of LifeSHINES, and you are invited to send your questions right now to letters@lifesigns.org.uk – please be as clear and concise as you can and start your letters “Dear Dr. Neil” so we can forward them on.

Dr. Neil stresses that it is important to talk to your own doctor about any mental, emotional or physical worries or problems your might have, and reminds all our members and readers that he won’t be able to offer definitive answers, but rather general guidance and ideas to help you feel more confident to take action and look after yourself.

The Small Print

LifeSIGNS offers our members / Newsletter readers the opportunity to send their questions in, so that they can be read by a qualified and experienced Doctor.

We will only publish your firstname / nickname, and so you will remain anonymous. We reserve the right to edit your questions for the sake of clarity and conciseness.

Dr. Neil is not able to reply to emails directly, and any guidance he gives will be his personal opinion and should not considered as direct instruction, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or other healthcare professional. Always talk to your own GP or mental health professional if you are concerned about your health.

Unfortunately, it’s unlikely that Dr. Neil will be able to answer every question we receive.