Preteens self-harming with household products has increased more than threefold, study says

(CNN) — Children ages 6 to 12 are experiencing a dramatic increase in instances of self-harm –– and they are using common items available around the house, according to a new study.

The rate of instances reported to poison control centers of children being exposed to substances has risen by more than 50% since 2000, said study coauthor Dr. Hannah Hays, chief of toxicology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and medical director of the Central Ohio Poison Center.

But the number of those cases with suspected suicide or self-harm intent increased up to fourfold, she added.

“These cases were far more likely to result in serious medical outcomes or hospitalization for these children,” Hays said.

Hays said she noticed seeing more and younger kids experiencing self-harm and suicidality, and sh