Non-Suicidal Self-Injury: What Is It, Why Does It Happen, and How Can We Help?

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Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) refers to when people intentionally harm themselves but do not have any intent to kill themselves. There are a number of ways that people injure themselves including cutting, burning, biting, bruising, scratching, constricting, inhaling, picking and scalding. Of all of the methods, cutting is the most common form of NSSI; however, most people who self-injure engage in multiple methods. This info brief outlines what you need to know about non-suicidal self-injury and the steps you can take to support someone who is engaging in self-harm.

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DISCLAIMER: The information and resources listed on this site are for general informational and educational purposes only.  They are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or medical advice, and are not meant to replace the advice or counsel of a qualified professional. The inclusion of any third-party resources or links does not imply endorsement or guarantee of any organization, program, service, information, or outcome. The information and resources do not constitute any medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Please consult your child’s physician or other trusted medical professional before making any medical care decisions for yourself or your child.

©2026 Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio. All Rights Reserved.

The following trademarks are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates; McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald House Logo, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.

Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio is recognized as a public charity under Internal Revenue Code section 509(a) and has 501(c)(3) status. Donations to Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio are deductible. Donors should consult their tax advisor for questions regarding deductibility. The Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio EIN is 34-1269123. A copy of the Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio determination letter is available upon request.

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DISCLAIMER: The information and resources listed on this site are for general informational and educational purposes only.  They are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or medical advice, and are not meant to replace the advice or counsel of a qualified professional. The inclusion of any third-party resources or links does not imply endorsement or guarantee of any organization, program, service, information, or outcome. The information and resources do not constitute any medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Please consult your child’s physician or other trusted medical professional before making any medical care decisions for yourself or your child.

©2026 Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio. All Rights Reserved.

The following trademarks are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates; McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald House Logo, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.

Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio is recognized as a public charity under Internal Revenue Code section 509(a) and has 501(c)(3) status. Donations to Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio are deductible. Donors should consult their tax advisor for questions regarding deductibility. The Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio EIN is 34-1269123. A copy of the Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio determination letter is available upon request.

Looking for more?

Search the full resource database.

DISCLAIMER: The information and resources listed on this site are for general informational and educational purposes only.  They are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or medical advice, and are not meant to replace the advice or counsel of a qualified professional. The inclusion of any third-party resources or links does not imply endorsement or guarantee of any organization, program, service, information, or outcome. The information and resources do not constitute any medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations. Please consult your child’s physician or other trusted medical professional before making any medical care decisions for yourself or your child.

©2026 Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio. All Rights Reserved.

The following trademarks are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates; McDonald’s, Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald House Logo, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.

Ronald McDonald House® Northeast Ohio is recognized as a public charity under Internal Revenue Code section 509(a) and has 501(c)(3) status. Donations to Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio are deductible. Donors should consult their tax advisor for questions regarding deductibility. The Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio EIN is 34-1269123. A copy of the Ronald McDonald House Northeast Ohio determination letter is available upon request.