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Background: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is one of the most important public health concerns. NSSI usually begins in adolescence and is associated with several psychiatric, interpersonal, and intrapersonal problems. Prevalence estimates of NSSI has been reported globally and locally. However, the prevalence of NSSI even in similar populations is diverse in the literature. Most previous reports on NSSI prevalence originate from primary studies which usually have selection bias. Therefore, the objective of the current study is to estimate the prevalence of NSSI while considering the limitations of previous studies. Methods: All studies that have reported the prevalence of NSSI published from 1990 until the search date will be eligible to be included. This includes observational, survey, cohort, cross-sectional, and correlational studies. NSSI with any definition will be eligible to be included. There will be no language limitation. Special populations such as natives, minorities, or particular disorders will be excluded. Also, there will be no restriction regarding age, gender, nationality, and sexual orientation of the participants. To assess the methodological quality of the primary articles, a form will be used. Discussion: Considering the limitations of previous studies on the prevalence of NSSI, conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis to provide estimates of different types of NSSI. A better understanding of the prevalence of NSSI and related complications will point to gaps in research and help set preclude for future analyses. The results of this review will be applied by patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.Systematic review registration: CRD42020180887

Background: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is recognized a serious mental disorder. Its prevalence has increased in recent years. Emotion regulation has been noted to have important role in mental health problems. There is evidence in the literature about the relationship between NSSI and emotion regulation. The studies, however, have reported mixed findings, and no comprehensive study has been conducted yet to address this topic. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to investigate the relationship between NSSI and emotion regulation.Methods: All studies published after 1990 that have assessed the relationship between NSSI and emotion regulation will be eligible. This entails observational-analytic (descriptive or cross-sectional) studies, case-control studies, cohort studies. There will be no language restriction. Additionally, no limitation will be imposed regarding age, gender, and nationality of the subjects studiedDiscussion: Given the inconsistencies present in the findings of primary studies in terms of relationship between NSSI and emotion regulation strategies conducting such a study seems necessary. The results of this study could be used to improve our knowledge about NSSI, help revise health policies in the future, research and education to reduce NSSI burden, and to develop more effective interventions to manage NSSI.Systematic review registration: CRD42021226454