Self-administered acupuncture as an alternative to deliberate self-harm: a feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Psychiatry
• Mental Health Interventions

Background:

• Deliberate self harm (DSH) is a significant concern in patients with emotional dysregulation.
• Existing coping mechanisms for emotional distress may be insufficient or maladaptive.
• Acupuncture presents a potential alternative coping strategy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of training patients with DSH to self-administer acupuncture.
• To evaluate the acceptability, practicality, and safety of this intervention.
• To explore acupuncture's potential as an alternative coping skill for emotional distress.

Main Methods:

• A mixed methods feasibility study involving 10 adult patients diagnosed with emotionally unstable personality disorder.
• Participants were trained in self-acupuncture and used it over a 6-week period.
• Data collected through diaries (emotional distress, coping behaviors) and interviews (motives for DSH, acupuncture experience); mood assessed using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).

Main Results:

• Self-administered acupuncture was used regularly by participants throughout the 6-week intervention.
• A reduction in the frequency of DSH was observed during the intervention period.
• Qualitative analysis revealed varied patient experiences and effects of acupuncture, linked to DSH motives; BDI scores showed a trend towards reduction (p=0.055).

Conclusions:

• Patients with DSH can be safely trained to self-administer acupuncture as an alternative coping skill.
• The acceptability and effectiveness of self-acupuncture may vary based on individual motives for self-harm.
• This pilot study indicates self-administered acupuncture may reduce DSH frequency and emotional distress, warranting further investigation.