Self-harm in teenagers: The spectrum from non-suicidal self-injury to suicidality - Recognition, red flags and management approaches

As cited by *research from The Hospital for Sick Children, there has been a sharp increase in emergency department visits for attempted suicide and suicide ideation among children and adolescents.  While there was a 32 per cent reduction in pediatric ED visits for any health-related reasons during the pandemic, there was an alarming 22 per cent increase in the number of children and adolescents going to EDs for suicide attempts and an eight per cent increase in visits for suicide ideation.

In this live webinar, renowned child psychiatrist Dr. Marshall Korenblum explores the spectrum of self-harming behaviors in teenagers—from Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) to suicidality. Drawing on the latest evidence and real-world clinical experience, this training equips professionals with the tools to better understand and intervene in these urgent mental health issues.

This program is offered in two distinct sessions—morning and afternoon—allowing participants the flexibility to register for either individual session or the full day, depending on interests and professional learning needs. 

Morning session: 9 a.m. to noon ET |  Non-suicidal self-harm in teenagers: The role of emotion regulation in understanding and treating this urgent problem. 

Explore the dramatic rise in self-injurious behavior among teens, and learn how emotional dysregulation, insecure attachment, and social media are shaping this complex issue. This session defines Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Disorder (NSSID), outlines its prevalence and causes, and reviews treatment approaches to empower clinicians working on the front lines of youth mental health.

Afternoon session: 1 to 4 p.m. ET | Suicide in teenagers: Signs, symptoms, and risk factors.

Gain a deeper understanding of how suicidal thoughts and behaviors present in adolescents. This session highlights the critical warning signs, differentiates between clinical depression and typical adolescent sadness, and discusses effective intervention strategies. The impact of social and digital media, mental illness, and protective factors are also explored.

Whether you attend one or both sessions, you’ll gain critical insights into the root causes, clinical signs, and therapeutic approaches related to self-harm and suicide in adolescents.

Ontario Psychological Association employees, members, associates and affiliates can use discount code OPA15 to receive 15% off all upcoming programs (cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions/discounts).