Non-suicidal self-harming behaviors among university students in Latin America: A review of prevalence and associated factors

Abstract

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) has become a growing mental health problem among university students, linked to difficulties in emotional regulation and various psychosocial factors. The objective of this study was to analyze the existing evidence on the prevalence and factors associated with NSS among university students in Latin America. To this end, a narrative review of the literature was conducted, considering empirical research published in academic databases that met inclusion criteria related to the university population and the assessment of self-harming behaviors. The findings show that the prevalence of NSSI is heterogeneous, fluctuating between 7.14% and 30.9%, a variation attributable in part to methodological differences in the instruments and criteria used for its measurement. Likewise, it was observed that these behaviors usually begin during adolescence and occur more frequently in women, in addition to being associated with psychopathological variables such as depression, anxiety, and impulsivity. Overall, the evidence suggests that ANS function as maladaptive coping strategies for emotional distress, whose persistence in college underscores the need for comprehensive interventions. It is concluded that it is essential to strengthen early detection mechanisms, psychological care, and institutional policies aimed at student well-being.