A systematic review identifying personally modifiable factors for self-harm recovery in young people and the barriers and facilitators to their implementation
Year: 2026
Type: review
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: While research has extensively examined self-harm prevention and risk factors, fewer studies have explored recovery processes. Personally modifiable factors - lifestyle, skill-based, or behavioural aspects an individual can influence - may support self-harm recovery. This review aimed to identify these factors for young people and, secondarily, the barriers and facilitators affecting their implementation. METHODS: Recovery was defined symptomatically (reduction or cessation of self-harm) and personally, using the CHIME framework (Connectedness, Hope, Identity, Meaning, Empowerment). Five databases (Medline, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Embase, Web of Science) were searched in February 2025. Inductive coding identified personally modifiable factors, and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) guided analysis of barriers and facilitators. RESULTS: From 16,900 screened records, 35 studies were included. Common factors for symptom-based recovery (ceasing self-harm) included activities or hobbies (such as exercise, art, or music), social engagement with friends/family, harm minimisation techniques (e.g., holding ice cubes, elastic bands), and distraction methods. Online engagement and harm minimisation were double-edged, offering support but sometimes posing risks. Online forums fostered connectedness and empowerment, and recovery stories promoted hope (i.e. personal recovery). Barriers and facilitators varied; stigma often hindered offline discussion but encouraged anonymous online support. CONCLUSIONS: Young people identify diverse, personally modifiable factors that guide self-harm recovery alone or with support. These factors are context- and person-dependent, underscoring the need for flexible, individualized approaches. Future research should also include low- and middle-income countries and include stratified analyses by sex and gender to capture a broader range of experiences and recovery pathways.
Source: Journal of Psychiatric Research
Authors: David McEvoy, Colm Sweeney, Leona Ryan, Caroline Wilson, Colm Healy, David Mongan, Greg Sheaf, Agnes Higgins, Allyson J. Gallant, Louise Doyle, Catherine D. Darker, Brian Keogh, Yulia Kartalova-O'Doherty, Rebecca Murphy, Christine Fitzgerald, Lorna Staines, John Paul Lyne, Karen O'Connor, Shaakya Anand-Vembar, Donal O'Keeffe, Caoimhe Nic Aodha, Mary Cannon, Gary Donohoe, Olivia Longe, Colm McDonald, Sara Burke, Oisin Breen, Robyn Thomas, Michelle Doody, David Cotter
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,320
Funder: Health Research Board
OpenAlex ID: W7128923959