POLICY DEVELOPMENT & SUPPORT

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a really confronting and distressing behaviour.  Seeing a young person who has intentionally injured themselves can generate a lot of mixed emotions. It is confronting for even the most  seasoned mental health professional, but particularly for those who have had no training in managing NSSI, what it is, or how to respond to young people who have self-injured. This is the advantage of having a written protocol, ALL staff then know how to respond to NSSI systematically and strategically, reducing the level of emotions involved. This enables staff to see past the injuries, to the young person that is standing before them, and to effectively manage their physical and emotional needs, wellbeing and safety. A NSSI policy also considers the impact on the broader school community (i.e., students, staff, and parents), and how to account for their wellbeing, in the care and management of students who are self-injuring. ​

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Madeline can consult with your organisation or school to review your existing NSSI policy to ensure it is informed by best practice guidelines. Alternatively, she can work with your organisation or school to develop a policy for managing NSSI that meets the specific needs of your organisation. Madeline can advise the best course of action for the implementation of the NSSI policy to ensure it is generalised throughout the appropriate organisational levels.