Risk Factors for Self Mutilation Associated with Alcohol or Drug Abuse

 

Patient selection: alcohol and/or drug abuse

 

Self-mutilation involves both of the following:

(1) deliberate self-harm

(2) without intent to commit suicide

 

Risk factors for self-mutilation:

(1) history of past self-mutilation

(2) psychosis and hallucinations, which may be associated with pre-existing mental illness, intoxication or withdrawal

(3) other self-injurious behaviors (eating disorder, etc)

(4) history of childhood abuse and neglect

(5) impulsivity

(6) anger and aggression