Attempted suicide v. non-suicidal self-injury: behaviour, syndrome or diagnosis?

Abstract

Nomenclature used to describe acts of self-harm without fatal consequences varies considerably. The term 'non-suicidal self-injury' (NSSI) offers an opportunity to clarify study in this field, dichotomising the presence or absence of suicidal intent. This may improve consistency in reporting suicide and self-injurious behaviour with implications for management and prognosis.