Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) is the deliberate, self-inflicted destruction of body tissue resulting in immediate damage, without suicidal intent and for purposes not culturally sanctioned. It's typically not meant as a suicide attempt. Rather, this type of self-injury is a harmful way to cope with emotional pain, intense anger and frustration.
Self-injury can include a variety of behaviors but is most commonly associated with:
  • intentional carving or cutting of the skin
  • subdermal tissue scratching
  • burning oneself
  • banging or punching objects or oneself with the intention of hurting oneself
  • embedding objects under the skin
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT NON-SUICIDAL SELF-INJURY
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Warning Signs of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
Signs of self-injury may include:
  • Scars, often in patterns
  • Fresh cuts, scratches, bruises, bite marks or other wounds
  • Excessive rubbing of an area to create a burn
  • Keeping sharp objects on hand
  • Wearing long sleeves or long pants, even in hot weather
  • Frequent reports of accidental injury
  • Difficulties in interpersonal relationships
  • Behavioral and emotional instability, impulsivity and unpredictability
  • Statements of helplessness, hopelessness or worthlessness
Learn More About Self-Injury
Tips To Help Someone Who Self-Injures
Helpful Links
If you have a friend or loved one who is self-injuring, you may be shocked and scared. Take all talk of self-injury seriously. Although you might feel that you'd be betraying a confidence, self-injury is too big a problem to ignore or to deal with alone. Here are some ways to help.
  • Your child. You can start by consulting your pediatrician or other health care provider who can provide an initial evaluation or a referral to a mental health professional. Express your concern, but don't yell at your child or make threats or accusations.
  • Preteen or teenage friend. Suggest that your friend talk to parents, a teacher, a school counselor or another trusted adult.
  • Adult. Gently express your concern and encourage the person to seek medical and mental health treatment.
Cornell Research Program on Self-Injury and Recovery
 
American Psychological Association (APA) article: “Who Self-Injures?”

 Mental Health America (MHA) information about Self-Injury

 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Self-Harm Fact Sheet
 
Nip in the Bud website, and Understanding Self-Harm Fact Sheet and Link to Film

 Self- Injury Outreach and Support (SiOS):
General Information
A Guide for Parents