Detecting People Interested in Non-Suicidal Self-Injury on Social Media

Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) is the intentional destruction of body tissue without the intent to commit suicide [1]. It is particularly prevalent among adolescents and young adults as a means of emotional control and release. Typical NSSI activities include skin cutting, banging or hitting oneself, and burns. Recent prevalence estimates suggest that 14%-21% of adolescents and 17%-25% of young adults have engaged in NSSI at some point in their lives. NSSI is repeatedly found to be associated with significant emotional and behavioral dysfunction (such as eating disorders and suicide).