The relationship between substance use and non-suicidal self-injury in adults using retrospective accounts: a cross-sectional study of Australian adults who self-injured during adolescence

Background. Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and substance use are prevalent issues among adolescents, often persisting into adulthood. Understanding the relationship between substance use and the continuation or cessation of NSSI from adolescence to adulthood is crucial for effective intervention. Method. Adult participants (n = 602) who engaged in NSSI during adolescence completed an online cross-sectional survey, providing retrospective accounts of their experiences of NSSI. Demographic information, substance use patterns, and NSSI status in adulthood were assessed. Results. Results revealed initiation age of substance use significantly influenced NSSI continuation, with earlier alcohol initiation associated with increased likelihood of NSSI continuation, and later cannabis initiation linked to increased likelihood of NSSI continuation. However, NSSI status did not predict adult substance use patterns. Age positively correlated with substance use, while sex differences were present for alcohol and tobacco use. Conclusion. Many people who engage in NSSI during adolescence cease NSSI by adulthood. Initiation age of alcohol and cannabis was associated with NSSI status; however, NSSI status did not predict substance use patterns in adulthood. These findings underscore the complexity of NSSI and substance use patterns, emphasizing the need for comprehensive intervention strategies tailored to individual needs.