Citation

Gill G, Singh G, Mitra S, Tran K, Korenis P. Prim. Care Companion CNS Disord. 2023; 25(3): 22cr03329.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2023, Physicians Postgraduate Press)

DOI

10.4088/PCC.22cr03329

PMID

37230062

Abstract

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) refers to the intentional destruction of one's own body tissue without suicidal intent for reasons that do not adhere to cultural norms.1 Common examples include cutting, burning, scratching, biting, or hitting and sometimes multiple methods of carrying out the act.2 Researchers often opine that NSSI in some cases may fit in the framework of addiction. These parameters include loss of control, compulsivity, and continued use of substance or behavior while neglecting all consequences.3 Initial studies4 that presented NSSI as an addictive behavior suggested that the increase in negative emotions prior to self-injury is consistent with withdrawal symptoms experienced by drug users.

Furthermore, a connection between addictive behavior and increased tolerance to specific neurochemical processes such as the endogenous opioid system (EOS) can be established. The EOS plays a pivotal role in the control of several physiologic responses including pain perception (via nociceptors), emotional behavior, and regulation of reward circuits.5 The development of tolerance results from downstream mechanisms and recurrent stimulation of the opioid receptors.6 It is thus hypothesized that individuals who engage in NSSI bring about the release of endogenous neurochemicals such as endorphins, inducing an elevated mood that can become addictive...

Language: en