Understanding Self-Injury in Troubled Teens

Self-injury, especially cutting, is more common in females than males.

 

• Family history. Some evidence suggests that self-injury is more common in people who have a family history of suicide, self-injury or self-destructive acts.

 

• Past abuse. According to the National Mental Health Association, approximately half of all self-injurers in the United States were subject to sexual, physical or emotional abuse (including neglect) as children.

 

• Mental health issues. Among those at highest risk of self-injury are people who experience many negative emotions and are highly self-critical. People who self-injure are more likely to be impulsive and have poor problem-solving skills. Also, self-injury is commonly associated with certain mental illnesses, including borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, substance abuse disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and eating disorders.

 

• Alcohol or substance misuse. People who engage in self-harm often do so while under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs.

Diagnosis / Disorders Related to Self-Injury
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), published by the American Psychiatric Association, is used by mental health professionals in the United States to identify and categorize mental disorders. Currently, there is no formal classification for self-injury. However, self-injurious behavior is seen in connection with a number of different diagnoses:

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Characterized by impulsive behavior, moodiness and problems with self-image and personal relationships.

 

• Mood Disorders. Includes depression (feelings of sadness and an inability to enjoy daily life), and bipolar disorder.

 

• Anxiety Disorders. Characterized by disruptive, debilitating fear or worry. Self-injury has been also associated with diagnoses of obsessive-compulsive disorder, with its recurrent and intrusive thoughts and behaviors, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder, in which symptoms occur after a traumatic event.

 

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