Teen Self-Injury: Statistics, Causes, and Support Resources

Self-injury (non-suicidal self-injury, NSSI) affects a significant minority of adolescents.

Statistics (NSDUH 2017)

• ~4.1% of adolescents 12–17 (over 1 million US teens) reported past-year self-injury.
• Higher in girls; peak ages 14–17.

Common Functions

• Emotion regulation (relief from intense distress).
• Expression of inexpressible feelings.
• Coping with stress (academic, family, peer).
• Regaining sense of control.

Consequences

• Physical injury, infection, scarring.
• Association with depression, anxiety, eating disorders.
• Social/academic impairment.

Help Is Available

Evidence-based treatments: DBT-A, CBT, family therapy. Crisis resources: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741).

Early intervention improves outcomes.