Is There Any Relation Between Autism and Self Harm?

Family Medicine, Roots Community Health Center, Hippo Education, Kameda Medical Center

Supervised by Kenji Taylor, MD, MSc

Yes, studies have found that people with autism are more likely to hurt themselves compared to those without autism. This self-injury risk can come from several challenges, like communication issues or strong sensory feelings.

Explanation

Research shows that children and adults with autism may have a higher chance of self-harm. Self-injury might look like head banging, biting, or other repeated behaviors that can cause harm to the body. One study found that there are many risk factors tied to self-harming behaviors in those with autism, including difficulties communicating, handling stress, and processing sensory information. These challenges can make it harder for individuals with autism to express their feelings or get help in a way that feels comfortable to them. Some studies have also looked at how other conditions that sometimes occur with autism, such as epilepsy, might further affect the risk of self-harm or even mortality. It is important to remember that not everyone with autism will hurt themselves, and many factors can influence behavior patterns. With proper support and therapies, individuals with autism can learn better ways to cope and communicate their needs. Always be sure to seek professional guidance if self-harm behaviors are a concern.

(References)

Pickett J, Xiu E, Tuchman R, Dawson G, Lajonchere C. Mortality in individuals with autism, with and without epilepsy. J Child Neurol. 2011 Aug;26(8):932-9. doi: 10.1177/0883073811402203. Epub 2011 Apr 6. PMID: 21471551.
Duerden EG, Oatley HK, Mak-Fan KM, McGrath PA, Taylor MJ, Szatmari P, Roberts SW. Risk factors associated with self-injurious behaviors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. J Autism Dev Disord. 2012 Nov;42(11):2460-70. doi: 10.1007/s10803-012-1497-9. PMID: 22422338.
Kalb LG, Vasa RA, Ballard ED, Woods S, Goldstein M, Wilcox HC. Epidemiology of Injury-Related Emergency Department Visits in the US Among Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord. 2016 Aug;46(8):2756-2763. doi: 10.1007/s10803-016-2820-7. PMID: 27241347; PMCID: PMC4939109.
Blanchard A, Chihuri S, DiGuiseppi CG, Li G. Risk of Self-harm in Children and Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Netw Open. 2021 Oct 1;4(10):e2130272. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.30272. PMID: 34665237; PMCID: PMC8527356.

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