Developing a Policy to Address Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Schools

BACKGROUNDNonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is an increasing and serious concern in schools. The purpose of this study was to determine the suitability of a new policy for responding to NSSI in schools. METHODSTeachers and other school staff, including year level coordinators, psychologists, and counselors, N=48, reviewed a policy for addressing NSSI in schools and provided written feedback. RESULTSThe majority of staff worked in schools without a policy regarding NSSI, or were unsure whether their school had such a policy. Participants were generally positive about the presented policy and supported its implementation in schools. Perceived challenges to policy implementation included a lack of knowledge about NSSI among staff and limited referral services available to students who self-injure. Suggested changes included developing a flowchart of the referral process and increasing collaboration between school staff, changes which were subsequently implemented. CONCLUSIONAwareness and education for school staff regarding NSSI combined with school policies for responding to adolescents who self-injure are recommended to enhance management of NSSI in schools, and improve the health and well-being of adolescents who self-injure.