Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Awareness Month

March is Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Awareness Month. According to Psychology Today, Non-Suicidal Self-Injury, or NSSI, is a deliberate, non-suicidal behavior that inflicts physical harm on one’s body to relieve emotional distress. The crucial thing to remember about NSSI is that these behaviors are not directly a suicidal risk factor. These behaviors are often used as coping methods for those dealing with emotional turmoil. Although help should be sought for any individual who is participating in self-injury, an appropriate response is crucial. Because most self-injury behaviors are not suicide attempts, it is imperative to be cautious when reaching out to youth and not make any assumptions. Luckily, there are safe choices someone experiencing emotional turmoil can implement instead of turning to self-injury. For example, you can create and keep an emergency kit close by filled with positive things like loving notes from friends and family, a journal to catalogue your feelings, favorite scents, or art supplies to express yourself with.