Self-directed violence surveillance: Uniform definitions and recommended data elements

To address the current lack of a uniform definition on fatal and nonfatal self-harm, the CDC developed this resource to improve our understanding of self-directed violence and standardize data collection. Consistent data allow researchers to better gauge the scope of the problem, identify high-risk groups, and monitor the effects of prevention programs. The definitions and data elements were developed in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.