Suicide Prevention Proposal

Suicidal and Non Suicidal Self Harm Behaviors are both disorders that while be closely related, also have distinguishing characteristics that are important to take note of. The intention with which the individual sets out with is the main determining factor of which type of self harm is occurring. One study even shares how the risk factors for the onset of the two are different (Nock 2016). If the individual has the intent of ending their life, they are displaying suicidal behavior. If the individual has the intent of creating a sense of relief through the self harm behavior, then they are displaying non-suicidal self harm (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Suicidal Behavior Disorder. This disorder has been given more attention in the
In 2012, the Surgeon General of the United States and the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention revised the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention in ways that will be most effective, using the latest research available. Because Suicide is seen as a major public health concern, it is made a top priority by the Surgeon General. The National Strategy for Suicide Prevention aims to understand how suicide if effected by other health issues, finding out who is the most at risk and why, to find the most effective interventions for suicide prevention, and to encourage all-inclusive treatments which include follow up check-ins with the patient after treatment.
The self inflicted injuries are usually painful, but shallow, and done to the surface of the skin. It is done in order to either reduce anxious thoughts, and other feelings of tension, or to be self punishment. It can also be done to experience an immediate sensation or impression of comfort or satisfaction. The individual will partake in the behavior so frequently and with a certain feeling of necessity, that it strongly resembles an addiction. (DSMV). The individual will use instruments such as a sharp knife, razor blade or needle to cut themselves. The most common areas are the tops of thighs, and the inside of the forearm. The cuts made are on the top layer of the skin, usually cut parallel to each other. There are more methods than cutting oneself; it has been recorded that individuals may burn themselves with a lit cigarette butt, or rub their skin with an eraser. (DSMV) There are up to sixteen different recorded methods of self harm (SLIDE) Usually, the higher the number of types of methods the individuals partakes in, the more “sever the psychopathology, including suicidal attempts.” (DSMV) Perhaps one of the most debilitating part of this disorder is that most people who participate in such self harm behaviors do not report it, and do not seek any clinical treatment