Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is generally believed to be more prevalent among females, but there is limited research exploring the sex and geographic-specific factors influencing its prevalence among adolescents. This meta-analysis, which reviewed 38 studies, found that NSSI is twice as common in female teenagers compared to males in North America, though this pattern is not observed in Asia. This raises an important question: what factors are driving such significant distress in young women? Mood disorders, body image issues, and anxiety are all recognized as contributing factors that increase the likelihood of NSSI. We are lucky to have some treatments that help with NSSI including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). If you or someone you know is struggling with NSSI please reach out for help.
Link to the Article:
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2820026
Leave a Reply