Summary of Psychology: Well-being, Stress, and Disorders

## Introduction Suicide and self-harm are serious topics that affect many young people. This material explains what non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) means, what the risk factors for suicide are, how the environment and media contribute, and how to help someone in crisis. The goal is to provide practical information, clear definitions, and steps you can take if you are concerned about yourself or someone else. ## What is Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) > **Definition:** Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is the deliberate harming of one's own body without the intent to die, for example, cutting, burning, or hitting oneself. ### Forms of NSSI - Cutting - Burning - Hitting or striking one's own body - Inserting objects under the skin or nails > **Definition:** Self-harm can take many forms and is not necessarily linked to an attempt to die; it is often a way of coping with intense emotions. ### Why do people self-harm? (motives) - To distract from negative thoughts or emotions - To attract attention or help from others - Self-punishment for feelings of guilt - To try to change the behavior of others - To "belong" to a peer group ### Psychological features associated with NSSI - Difficulties with emotion regulation - Self-criticism and impulsivity - NSSI often functions as a short-term relief from internal tension ## Relationship Between NSSI and Suicide - NSSI is typically not a suicide attempt, but it is a significant risk factor for later suicidal thoughts or attempts. - The risk increases if bipolar disorder or other severe mental health issues are also present. - Without intervention, NSSI can worsen over time and progress to suicidal thoughts. ## Suicide Risk Factors - Psychological: depression, anxiety, emotion regulation difficulties - Social: bullying, isolation, family or peer rejection - Environmental: access to lethal means (e.g., firearms) - Cultural and Demographic: higher rates among older adults (over 70), wealthier individuals, unmarried, and unpartnered groups > **Definition:** A risk factor is a characteristic or circumstance that increases the likelihood of someone developing suicidal thoughts or behaviors. ### Specific High-Risk Groups - LGBTQ+ youth, especially with family or peer rejection - Transgender individuals: statistics show a high proportion of suicide attempts among transgender adults - First Nations/Indigenous communities may have an increased risk in some regions ### Age and Trends - Suicide rates increase with age, most notably in individuals over 70 - Among high school students in the United States, there was a 62% increase in suicidal thoughts between 2009 and 2019 ## The Role of Social Media and "Social Contagion" - Publicized suicides or television portrayals can increase suicidality in social networks - Among boys, an increase in suicides was observed even after a coworker's suicide Did you know that excessive social media use for more than 3–4 hours a day among adolescents, especially among girls, is associated with higher rates of depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation? ## Role of Firearms - Firearms account for nearly half of suicides in the U.S. - States with higher gun ownership generally have higher suicide rates. - Changes in laws affect rates: loosening access to firearms can lead to an increase in suicides, while tightening it can lead to a decrease. ## Risk and Protective Factors (Table) | Factor | Increases Risk | Decreases Risk | |---|---:|:---| | Depression/Anxiety | +++ | - | | Social Support | - | +++ | | Access to Weapons | +++ | - | | Rejection (family/peers) | ++ | - | | Emotion Regulation Skills | + | ++ | ### How to Help Someone Talking About Suicide 1. Listen actively: show empathy, don't judge, don't minimize 2. Ask a direct question: "Are you thinking about suicide?" — direct questions do not increase risk 3. Connect the person with help: school counselor, suicide prevention hotline, crisis services 4. If there is immediate danger, call 911 or your local