Information‐Knowledge‐Attitude‐Practice Model in Non‐Suicidal Self‐Injury Behaviours of Adolescence and Young Adults With Major Depressive Disorder: Randomised Controlled Trials

ABSTRACT Introduction Non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) is considered a cathartic approach to reducing negative emotions; repeated occurrences increase the risk of suicide. Applying an information‐knowledge‐attitude‐practice (IKAP) model might help patients establish effective and sustainable ways to express negative emotions and cope with difficulties, reducing NSSI. Aim We explored an IKAP‐based intervention on NSSI among adolescents and young adult patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Methods A total of 120 adolescent and young adult patients with MDD who reported NSSI were recruited from January to December 2021. Using stratified randomisation, the participants were randomly divided into a balanced control group (usual treatment) and intervention group (IKAP intervention). The Cognitive Emotion Scale, NSSI, and handling of dangerous items were assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention. Results Post‐intervention, the intervention group had significantly lower NSSI, were more likely to give up dangerous items, and indicated better cognitive‐emotional regulation than the control group (all p < 0.05). Discussion The IKAP model significantly improved NSSI‐related outcomes. Implication for Practice The IKAP model could improve patients' cognitive‐emotional regulation more than traditional health education, enabling patients to participate more actively in disease management, learn problem‐solving skills, reduce negative emotions, actively cooperate with ward safety management practices, and reduce NSSI. Trial Registration ChiCTR registration number: ChiCTR2100050317