Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in College Populations: Mental Health Provider Assessment of Prevalence and Need

Concern about the prevalence of nonsuicidal self-injury is widespread. Members of an electronic listserv for college counseling center directors nationwide were invited to participate in a Web survey to investigate provider experience with nonsuicidal self-injury; 290 surveys were analyzed. Most respondents perceived recent increases in nonsuicidal self-injury and lack of effective treatment knowledge. Most favored dialectical behavior therapy or cognitive behavior therapy for treatment, but few found treatment effective. Implications for treatment and prevention in college settings are discussed.