Relationships between the frequency and severity of non-suicidal self-injury and suicide attempts in youth with borderline personality disorder

Abstract

Aim: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a recognized indicator of suicide risk. Yet, the ubiquity of this behaviour in borderline personality disorder (BPD) limits its utility as a predictor of risk. Consequently, this study aimed to elucidate the relationship between other features of NSSI, including frequency and severity, and suicide attempts. Method: Participants included 107 youth (15 to 25 year olds) with BPD who were assessed for BPD severity, depressive symptoms, 12-month frequency of NSSI and suicide attempts, as well as the levels of treatment sought following each self-harm event. Results: Three-quarters (75.7%) of youth with BPD reported NSSI and two-thirds (66.4%) reported a sui..