A recent study has identified a form of self-harm being practiced by adolescents that is cause for concern among medical professionals. This behavior may also serve as an indicator of an individual's plans to commit suicide.

According to researchers from Nationwide Children's Hospital, self-embedding behavior (SEB) is the act of inserting foreign objects into soft tissue. Over a three-year period, these medical professionals identified 11 patients who had placed objects under their skin or into their muscles.

Of these patients, 82 percent were female and each had been diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder. Objects that were removed from areas such as arms, legs and wrists included metal, glass, plastic, wood, graphite and crayon.

The researchers found that 75 percent of the patients engaged in SEB as a result of suicidal ideations and the need to inflict serious harm to their bodies. To treat individuals who engage in this harmful behavior, the medical professionals believe that aggressive and interdisciplinary assessments are required, in addition to long-term therapy.

Teenagers who are showing signs of self-harm or suicidal behavior may be able to receive treatment from boarding schools.