Non-Suicidal Self-Injury 1
What does DBT stand for?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
What are symptoms of NSSI?
Cutting, burning, scratching, hitting, or other forms of physical harm.
Is it crucial to identify signs of distress and mental health challenges in residents, even if they aren't explicitly suicidal?
Yes
What does CBT stand for?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Ejemplos más comunes de autolesión no suicida (ANSS):
•Cortar o pinchar la piel con un objeto punzante (por ejemplo, cuchillo, cuchilla, aguja).
•Quemar la piel (típicamente con un cigarrillo).
1.- Mention at least 2 recommendations for the Clinical Department on Supporting a client who engages in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury.
-NSSI is often a maladaptive coping mechanism, not a suicide attempt.
-How to differentiate between NSSI and suicidal ideation.
-Evidence-based interventions (e.g., DBT, CBT, trauma-informed care).
-How to help the client build emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
-That shame and secrecy worsen NSSI — therapy should reduce those, not increase them
What is the average age of onset for NSSI?
13
What does NSSI stand for?
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
How does NSSI differ from suicide attempts?
Suicide attempts are actions taken with the intent to end one's life and NSSI is not.
What are the benefits when staff observe and understand these NSSI symptoms?
Allows staff to intervene early, implement appropriate support strategies and address underlying issues before the escalate.
What medications are used to treat NSSI?
None, there are no medications to specifically treat NSSI.
2.-Mention at least 2 recommendations for the Medical Department on Supporting a client who engages in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury.
-Treat wounds nonjudgmentally and professionally — avoid shaming.
-Monitor for patterns in injury location, method, or timing.
-Understand that increased observation may be necessary but should be paired with therapeutic support.
-Collaborate closely with mental health on triggers and risk cycles.
-Some clients may need psychiatric meds for underlying conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, BPD).
What is the most common example of non-suicidal self-injury?
Cutting or stabbing the skin with sharp object(eg, knife, razor blade, needle). Burning the skin(with lighter).
3.-Mention at least 2 recommendations for the Direct Care Staff (YCW) Department on Supporting a client who engages in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury.
-Build trust-based relationships — rapport is key to de-escalation.
-Understand how to recognize early warning signs (withdrawal, hiding, agitation).
-Avoid punitive responses — use redirection and coping tools.
-Follow the client’s individual safety plan precisely.
-Be trained in basic de-escalation and trauma-informed care.
4.-Mention at least 2 recommendations for the Case Management Department on Supporting a client who engages in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury.
-Help bridge between systems (e.g., school, home, therapy).
-Educate families about NSSI — reduce fear and stigma.
-Ensure post-discharge support includes ongoing therapy and a crisis plan.
-Be culturally sensitive to family beliefs and stigma around self-harm.
Un plan de seguridad no se trata solo de evitar lesiones, sino de ___________, ___________ y una sensación de control en el cuidado del individuo.
Construir Confianza
Resiliencia
Name 3 ways NSSI symptoms might manifest in a residential treatment setting.
Social withdrawal, increased irritability or anger, mood swings, changes in interest or motivation.
What is NSSI?
It's the deliberate, self-inflicting destruction of any part of the body without the intent to die, according to mental health resources.
Stressful life events, unresolved trauma, and feelings of isolation can precipitate a return to _______________ .
self-harming behaviors.
5.-Mention at least 2 recommendations for the Kitchen Department on Supporting a client who engages in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury.
-Sharp utensils (knives, forks, can openers, peelers)
-Metal lids, cans, broken dishware
-Hot surfaces or scalding liquids
-Hidden sharps (e.g., in food packaging or kitchen tools)
What can significantly influence a child's willingness to talk and accept help, when communicating with someone who is engaging in NSSI?
Your tone, language, and body language.
Apoyar a un cliente que se autolesiona sin intención suicida requiere un ___________________________, donde cada departamento comprenda su rol específico
Equipo interdisciplinario bien coordinado
What should the focus be when helping a child going through NSSI?
The focus should be on compassionate, non-judgemental connection, helping them feel seen, heard, and safe.
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI). Usually isn’t about hurting other people. Instead, it is a way some people cope with what?
Emotional pain, distress, or very strong feelings inside
Name 4 de-escalation tips for NSSI.
1. Stay calm and grounded
2. Ensure immediate safety
3. Use non-judgemental language
4. Offer choices and control
5. Engage in grounding techniques
6. Don't demand an explanation