New research used health records from nearly 5 million people in Norway and New Zealand. The study looked at primary care, hospital records and injury insurance claims over many years.
People with mental health conditions had higher chances of self-harm and injuries from assault. The research also found more unintentional injuries, such as falls and traffic accidents, and stronger links for head and brain injuries. The authors say injury prevention should be part of mental health care.
Difficult words
- research — study to find new information
- record — written or electronic information about peoplehealth records, hospital records
- primary care — first medical help from a doctor
- injury — harm to the body from an accidentinjuries
- assault — a violent attack by another person
- prevention — actions to stop something bad happening
- mental health condition — a problem with feelings or thinkingmental health conditions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think injury prevention should be part of mental health care?
- Are falls or traffic accidents common where you live? Give one example.
- What help can primary care give to someone with a mental health condition?
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