Objective:

To synthesize current research on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) and its addictive features, and to propose Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy (SAINT) as a potential treatment.

Approach:

• Literature Review: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed and Web of Science for articles related to NSSI, reward networks, and neuromodulation, focusing on peer-reviewed studies.

Key Findings:

• NSSI exhibits core addictive features such as compulsive urges and tolerance.
• Dysfunction in the brain's reward circuitry, particularly the ventral striatum and prefrontal cortex, is implicated in NSSI.
• Approximately 45.2% of individuals with NSSI meet criteria for addiction-like behavioral patterns.
• NSSI is associated with heightened suicide risk and is prevalent among adolescents, particularly those with borderline personality disorder and depressive disorders.

Interpretation:

The review highlights the need for a better understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms of NSSI to develop targeted interventions, particularly through neuromodulation techniques like SAINT.

Limitations:

• The review primarily focuses on empirical studies published in English, which may limit the breadth of perspectives.
• Controversy exists regarding the classification of NSSI as an addictive disorder, complicating the interpretation of findings.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that precision neuromodulation may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for NSSI by targeting specific deficits in the reward network.