Nonsuicidal self-injury: a review of current research for family medicine and primary care physicians.

Bibliographic Collection: 
MOCA Reference, APE
Publication Type: Journal Article
Authors: Kerr, Patrick L; Muehlenkamp, Jennifer J; Turner, James M
Year of Publication: 2010
Journal: J Am Board Fam Med
Volume: 23
Issue: 2
Pagination: 240-59
Date Published: 03/2010
Publication Language: eng
ISSN: 1557-2625
Keywords: Adolescent, Comorbidity, Cross-Sectional Studies, Family Practice, Humans, Mental Disorders, Patient Care Team, Primary Health Care, Referral and Consultation, Risk Factors, Self-Injurious Behavior, Suicide, Suicide, Attempted
Abstract:

Self-injury is a dangerous behavior that is different from suicidal behavior but is associated with increased risk of suicide attempts. Some effective psychological treatments for self-injury exist. Physicians in family medicine and primary care settings play a vital role as a first step in the treatment process for those who self-injure. Physicians can enhance the care provided to those who self-injure via the accurate assessment of risk, the understanding of the functions of the behavior, assisting the patient in identifying motivations for treatment and treatment options, and provision of long-term behavioral and risk monitoring. This article summarizes the current scientific knowledge regarding the clinical features, epidemiology, assessment methods, and existing treatments of self-injury. The role of the primary care physician in the treatment of patients who self-injure is specifically outlined.

DOI: 10.3122/jabfm.2010.02.090110
Alternate Journal: J Am Board Fam Med
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