Neural interaction mechanisms between psychological and physical pain in non-suicidal self-injury and advances in clinical practice
10.3760/cma.j.cn113661-20250218-00074
- VernacularTitle:心理疼痛与躯体疼痛在非自杀性自伤行为中的神经交互机制及临床实践进展
- Author:
Hong MA
1
;
Xiangju DU
1
;
Danni CHI
1
;
Yubo WANG
1
;
Xuejie YE
1
;
Yuanyuan ZHANG
1
Author Information
1. 宁波大学附属康宁医院精神科，宁波315201
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Non-suicidal self-injury;
Psychological pain;
Physical pain;
Brain networks;
Neuromodulation
- From:
Chinese Journal of Psychiatry
2025;58(8):646-651
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
The interplay between psychological pain and physical pain is one of the key issues in the research of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Psychological pain, driven by negative self-perception and difficulties in emotional regulation, activates specific brain regions, such as the anterior cingulate gyrus and insula, areas that overlap with neural networks involved in physical pain. Physical pain can, in turn, activate distinct neural pathways that temporarily alleviate psychological pain. However, repeated self-injury may lead to increased pain tolerance over time, contributing to a vicious cycle. This paper reviews the potential neural network connections and interactions between psychological and physical pain in the context of NSSI behavior. It also summarizes current clinical interventions and their effectiveness in treating NSSI, aiming to offer new insights for future research and clinical practice in preventing and treating NSSI.
