How Internet can help those who self-injure

Toronto, July 22: Positive messaging through social media could be a powerful tool to help people overcome non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), a new study has found. The study suggested that those who engage in NSSI, the Internet can provide a less threatening and more anonymous information and support network, especially if individuals are not getting support elsewhere. “Self-injury, including cutting and burning, is a serious public health concern around the world,” said lead author Stephen Lewis, Professor at Canada’s University of Guelph. The researchers also found that while it affects people of all ages, self-injury is more prevalent among people from 14 to 24. Within that age range, up to one in five have engaged in self-injury. “We know that young people who struggle with self-injury often go online to obtain needed social support,” said Lewis. The team embedded fictional peer comments in a screenshot of an NSSI-themed YouTube video and assessed attitudes about NSSI recovery before and after positive and negative messaging. (IANS)