Interrupting the Self-Harm Continuum.

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) has increased rapidly and is frequently linked to suicidal behavior; it has been argued that these behaviors are key points on a self-harm continuum. The current research explored self-harm and help-seeking behaviors, with the aim of identifying possibilities for prevention of further harm, including suicide. An online survey of 304 New Zealanders was undertaken, with the majority being aged under 25 and female. Nearly half of the sample had engaged in self-harm and most of those had experienced suicidal thoughts; close to a quarter had made a suicide attempt. NSSI was used as a way of dealing with emotional distress. Very few sought help of any kind, especially professional support; of those who did seek professional support, most found it helpful but did not necessarily stop self-harming as a result. Men are under-represented in the sample - though this is in accordance with the population of people who engage in NSSI. : Many participants engaged in NSSI and also had suicidal thoughts using NSSI as an emotion regulation strategy; some participants appeared to use NSSI rather than attempting suicide. Given a link between NSSI and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, reluctance to seek help and on-going injurious behavior among some who do seek help, there is a need for increased identification and proactive support specifically focusing on improving emotion regulation and targeted at injurious behavior.