Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI)
Self-harming behaviour is referred to clinically as “non-suicidal self-injury” (NSSI), which will be used interchangeably with “self-harm” in this section. It is defined as “repeated cutting, burning, hitting, rubbing, or otherwise inflicting damage to body tissue for non-socially sanctioned reasons, but not as a suicide attempt and does not include body manipulations (such as piercings or tattoos)” (Guerdjikova et al., 2014, p. 326).
Self-harm is a maladaptive coping strategy, and is often used to self-regulate distressing emotions, as a form of self-punishment, or as a means of resisting a potential suicide attempt (Klonsky & Muehlenkamp, 2007). Although students may engage in self-harming behaviours without suicidal intent, it should be noted that these behaviours can indicate a risk of suicide—which should be thoroughly assessed by a qualified mental health professional.
REFLECTION:
Do you have any preconceived notions about self-harm? How might some self-harm practices fall under the radar?
The following findings from studies can factor into how students are supported when it comes to NSSI:
- Self-harm is commonly seen among 2SLGBTQIA+ students compared to their cisgender and straight peers (Reddy et al., 2016).
- This disparity can be explained by the Minority Stress Theory, which posits that health inequities experienced by members of sexual minority populations are partly due to excess stress in the form of stigma and internalized shame, the expectation of discriminatory events, and structural oppression. Some respond to these conditions by using NSSI as a coping strategy (Reddy et al., 2016).
- NSSI also has high levels of comorbidity with other mental health conditions and diagnoses (Baetens et al., 2024).
- It is estimated that the lifetime prevalence rate of NSSI among post-secondary students is 23% (Swannell et al., 2014).
- Individuals may avoid seeking support due to social stigma, concerns that the behaviour could be interpreted as a suicide attempt and therefore lead to hospitalization or worry about potential fearful reactions from others like friends and family (Hasking et al., 2015).
