Addressing self-injury in the school setting

Abstract

A growing number of students presenting with nonlethal self-injury has recently captured the attention of school nurses. The purpose of intentional self-harm is aimed at reducing emotional distress. This is not a new phenomenon, but what is alarming is the increasing incidence of self-injurious behavior among adolescents. This behavior is raising many questions for school staff. School nurses, along with guidance department staff, are searching for information and direction needed to address this behavior. School nurses, educated about self-injury, can serve as resources for other school staff members. Prevention strategies for all adolescents can be developed as well as strategies targeted at groups of at-risk adolescents. Because mental health care is critical for the treatment of self-injury, referral and early access to counseling is an important role for school nurses. In addition, a plan that includes educating staff members and parents can be developed. Included in this comprehensive plan is developing a protocol to be used to guide the care of adolescents who self-injure.