Self-Harm in Teens: Prevalence, Risk Factors & Support

The exact percentage of teenagers who self-harm or engage in self-injurious behaviors (SIB) can vary depending on the study, the population being studied, and the specific definition used for self-harm. However, several studies have provided estimates of the prevalence of self-harm among adolescents:

- A study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, based on data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), estimated that 4.3% of adolescents aged 12 to 17 reported engaging in non-suicidal self-injury in the past year.

- A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the journal The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that the pooled prevalence of self-harm among adolescents (defined as intentional self-injury without suicidal intent) was 17.9% in community samples and 35.3% in clinical samples.

- Another study published in the journal Pediatrics, based on data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, estimated that 24% of high school students had engaged in self-injurious behavior at least once in their lifetime.

It's important to note that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as the method of assessment, the definition of self-harm, and the characteristics of the specific population being studied. Self-harm is a serious issue that can have significant consequences for adolescent mental health and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm, it's important to seek professional help and support.