Why Sleep Matters: Designing Self-Harm Research with Young People

This research aims to develop a study that will explore how sleep may influence self-harm thoughts and behaviours in young people. We’re working directly with young people aged 16 to 24 years old, who have lived experience of self-harm, to co-design an Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) study; a method that tracks experiences and emotions in real-time in daily life.

Previous studies using EMA often don’t meaningfully involve young people in the design process. This project aims to change that by collaborating with young people to shape an EMA protocol that feels safe, relevant and accessible.

Through workshops and testing the EMA tool in daily life, participants share feedback to:

  • Determine how often and when to collect data throughout the day.
  • Develop sensitive and understandable questions around sleep and self-harm.
  • Establish effective risk management and safety strategies.

All activities are designed to be flexible and supportive, allowing participants to contribute in a way that feels comfortable for them.

Meet the research team

Bethany Martin, Dr Susan Rasmussen, Dr Kirsten Russell, Dr Megan Crawford, Scott Thomson, Xavier Chan


Contact: bethany.martin@strath.ac.uk