Itsetuhoisiin

Itsetuhoinen is a Finnish adjective meaning self-destructive or inclined toward self-harm. It is used to describe behaviors, attitudes, or tendencies that increase the risk of harming oneself or attempting suicide. Itsetuhoisiin is an inflected form of the adjective used in Finnish grammar to modify nouns in specific cases, for example in phrases such as itsetuhoisiin tekoihin (to self-destructive acts) or itsetuhoisiin ihmisiin (toward self-destructive people). The term is common in mental health discussions but is not a formal clinical diagnosis by itself; it often appears alongside more specific diagnoses and assessments such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, or substance use.

The term conveys a range of concepts, from harmful coping strategies and self-harming behaviors to suicidality, and is frequently encountered in clinical notes, research literature, and media reporting on suicide and self-harm. In professional settings, it is generally complemented by precise clinical terms and risk assessments. Language surrounding self-harm aims to be respectful and non-stigmatizing, emphasizing safety, seeking help, and supportive care rather than judgment.

In practice, itsetuhoinen usage is intended to capture patterns or states that may necessitate intervention, rather than labeling a person themselves. When discussing self-harm and suicide risk, Finnish professionals typically pair the term with validated assessments and individualized care plans. If you or someone you know is in distress or thinking about self-harm, contact local emergency services or a mental health professional; crisis lines and suicide prevention resources are available in many countries.