Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Definition of Non-suicidal self injury (NSSI)

Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026

Non-suicidal self injury (NSSI): A form of intentional physical self-damage or self-harm that is not accompanied by suicidal intent or ideation. Examples of NSSI include cutting, burning, stabbing, or excessive rubbing. The behaviors of NSSI are performed with the expectation that the injury produced will be minor to moderate and will not be life-threatening. So-called "common and trivial" behaviors such as nail biting are not included in the proposed definition for NSSI, nor are socially sanctioned practices such as piercing and tattooing.

NSSI is a growing problem among adolescents and young adults and may be a sign of sadness, loneliness, despair, low self-esteem, or the feeling of being unloved. About 14% to 24% of adolescents and young adults have engaged in some type of self-harm, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

See also: self-harm, NSSI