Cultural dimensions of nonsuicidal self-injury: A Malaysian perspective

Abstract

Self-injury is a perilous and increasingly common behavior that is particularly prevalent among youth. Nonetheless, there is a deep-rooted public stigma towards people who self-injure. Consequently, people who engage in self-injury are reluctant to seek professional help or disclose their experiences to others. This article aims to combat stigma and promote help-seeking behavior by debunking the common myths surrounding self-injury in the Malaysian context. Specifically, this article aims to serve as an eye-opener for Malaysian counselors and other mental health professionals to improve their multicultural knowledge, skills, and attitudes when working with those who self-injure.

Using the modified socio-ecological model to address stigma against non-suicidal self-injury among adolescents in Malaysia

“…Legally, the move to decriminalize suicide attempts has the potential to encourage more help-seeking behavior. Religiously, Fernandez and colleagues argue that all primary religions in Malaysia disprove self-injury and instead encourage them to seek professional help ( 29 ), while another study has shown religiosity providing a positive effect on resilience and self-efficacy ( 30 ). Further studies may be required to address this issue from the NSSI point of view.…”