Prevalence of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury in Senior High School Students: Basis for Intervention Program

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) remains a significant public health concern and a condition under further study for the proposed diagnostic category in the DSM-5. This quantitative, descriptive study employed the biopsychosocial framework to investigate the prevalence of NSSI and explore associated risk and protective factors among 305 Filipino senior high school students selected through stratified random sampling. The study found an NSSI rate of 14.9% (n = 45) in this population, with a mean age of onset of 14.44 years. Academic stress, low socioeconomic status, and family problems were identified as primary risk factors for academic underachievement. A critical finding challenges the proposed NSSID Criterion E (Impairment): despite reporting emotion dysregulation, a majority of participants maintained functionality and perceived control. This suggests that NSSI may serve as an immediate, albeit maladaptive, coping mechanism. The findings underscore the importance of integrating psychological support with effective strategies. The study concludes by recommending a Protocol Model for NSSI Response tailored for the school setting to address this risk systematically.