NSSI is the act of deliberately harming your own body, such as cutting or burning yourself, without any suicidal intent. It is often a way to cope with or express overwhelming emotional pain, to feel a sense of control, or to punish oneself. While not a suicide attempt, it is a sign of significant distress that requires compassionate, professional help to develop safer coping strategies.

If you are struggling with the urge to self-harm, please reach out for help. You can call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate support.

Common Symptoms or Things to Look Out For:

• Engaging in self-inflicted cutting, burning, scratching, or other forms of tissue damage.
• The behavior is not undertaken with the intent to die.
• The behavior is often preceded by feelings of tension or distress and followed by a sense of relief or release.