Trauma and Self-Directed Violence SIG

Mission

The Trauma and Self-Directed Violence Special Interest Group (SIG) seeks to foster an interdisciplinary community focused on advancing the understanding, prevention, and treatment of self-directed violence across the trauma spectrum. This SIG aims to bridge research, clinical practice, advocacy, and lived experience to inform best practices and promote healing for those affected by trauma-related self-harm, suicidal ideation, and behaviors.

We are committed to creating a collaborative and inclusive environment that critically examines how individual, cultural, systemic, and historical trauma intersect with self-directed violence. With humility and openness, the SIG works to ensure a diverse array of voices and perspectives are centered in these conversations.

Objectives

The Trauma and Self-Directed Violence SIG advances its mission through the following key activities:

• Promote integration of self-directed violence frameworks within trauma research, clinical care, and policy discourse.
• Facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration among clinicians, researchers, educators, advocates, and individuals with lived experience.
• Support knowledge exchange through curated discussions, case-based dialogues, and collaborative initiatives.
• Maintain a dedicated SIG listserv to disseminate emerging research, training opportunities, policy updates, and community initiatives.
• Serve as a resource for ISTSS members who are engaged in or affected by issues related to self-directed violence.

Co-chairs

Jaclyn Kearns, PhD
National Center for PTSD

Rachel Zelkowitz, PhD
VA Boston Healthcare System

Trauma and Self-Directed Violence SIG Listserv Address

Members of the Trauma and Self-Directed Violence SIG can use the SIG listserv to share information with the full SIG. istss-selfdirected-violence@groups.istss.org.