OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and possible risk factors associated with nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicide attempt among young adult university students.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study involving six colleges from a university in Manila, from which randomization through a computer-generated random number was done. Data were obtained through self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were done to evaluate the data.

RESULTS: A total of 225 students participated in the study (mean age of 20.33 years). Majority were females (60.44%). Ideations of self-harm were reported in 49.33%. NSSI and suicide attempts were reported at 26.22% and 14.67%, respectively. In general, self-harm (NSSI and/or suicidal attempt) was reported at 33.78%, while 7.11% of the respondents reported both NSSI and suicidal attempt in the past. Furthermore, 2-3 out of 10 students who engaged in NSSI would have a suicide attempt. Associated factors of NSSI and suicide attempt were age, female gender, gender orientation, parental civil status, employment, economic standing, and psychopathology which support the findings cited in literature.

CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of self-harm NSSI and/or suicidal attempt (33.78%) and the finding that NSSI was a gateway for suicidal attempt and that 2-3 out of ten who engaged in NSSI would have a suicide attempt underscores the need to develop an early intervention upon detecting self-harming behaviors and a preventive program for the progression of NSSI to suicide attempts.