Self-harm is when someone intentionally hurts themselves, often as a way to cope with emotional pain, stress, or difficult thoughts. Self-harm can include behaviours like cutting, burning, or hitting oneself. We will use brain imaging techniques, including PET (positron emission tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans to observe and study whether an important brain network contributes to self-harm.
Eligibility Criteria
- Aged 18 - 50 years old
- Engage in self-harm behaviours
- No current substance use disorders
- No current smoking
- No unstable medical condition
What does the study involve?
- Number of contacts: 4-6 in-person visits
- Compensation offered? Yes
Investigator(s): Dr. Nathan Kolla
Full Study Title: Targeting opioid neurotransmission in borderline personality disorder with self-harming behavior: A [11C]-NOP-1A positron emission tomography study
Contact Information:
E-mail: pain.study@camh.ca
REB number: 2022/049
REB Approval Expiry Date: January 9, 2026
PLEASE NOTE:
- Research staff cannot give medical advice over the phone or via email.
- If you have specific questions regarding your health care, please contact your family physician.
- We regret that not everyone screened for a study will be eligible to participate
- For more information about other treatment options for mental illness or addiction offered by CAMH, visit www.camh.ca or call 416-535-8501.