Understanding experiences of disclosing and receiving disclosures of nonsuicidal self-injury amongst peers in university: A qualitative investigation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a frequently occurring mental health concern among emerging adults in university, but one that is often concealed. Given that the disclosure of NSSI can provide opportunities to receive support, promoting positive disclosure experiences for students is important. However, the experiences of disclosing for both disclosers and recipients are not well understood. In the present study, we examined experiences leading up to, during, and following disclosures from students with lived experience giving and/or receiving a peer disclosure of NSSI. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 undergraduate students (M age = 19.95, 80% female), and reflexive thematic analysis was used. Four shared themes were identified : 1) The choice to disclose is a social cost-benefit analysis, in which context and past experiences matter, 2) Individuals seek emotional and practical support from their peers via disclosure, 3) Supportive responding constitutes care, empathy, and non-judgment, and 4) Disclosure can lead to awareness, change, and growth. One theme was unique to recipients: 5) Disclosure can be an overwhelming process, and many recipients feel ill-equipped to respond. Findings can be used to inform mental health literacy efforts for students on university campuses.