SELF-HARM

Types of Self-Harm

• Cutting: This involves using sharp objects to cut the skin, often on the arms, legs, or stomach.

• Burning: Deliberately burning oneself with cigarettes, lighters, or other hot objects.

• Scratching: Intentionally scratching the skin to cause harm.

• Hair-pulling: Known as trichotillomania, this involves pulling out one's hair, often in response to stress or anxiety.

• Head-banging or hitting: Some individuals may hit their heads against walls or other objects as a form of self-harm.

• Picking at wounds: Continuously picking at scabs or wounds to prevent healing or cause further damage.

• Self-Neglect: Failing to attend to one's own basic needs, including hygiene, nutrition, medical care, and safety. While it may not involve direct physical harm, self-neglect can have serious consequences for an individual's physical and mental well-being. Read more >

Signs of Self-Harm

In Oneself & Others

• Unexplained cuts, bruises, burns, or other injuries.

• Keeping sharp objects or other self-harm tools hidden.

• Wearing clothing inappropriate for the weather to hide scars or injuries.

• Isolation or withdrawal from social activities.

• Mood swings or changes in behavior.

• Frequent unexplained injuries or wounds.

• Wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather to cover up marks.

• Sudden changes in behavior or mood.

• Difficulty managing emotions.

• Avoiding activities that involve exposing skin, such as swimming or changing clothes in front of others.

Effects of Self-Harm

• Physical harm, scarring, or disfigurement.

• Increased risk of infection or other medical complications.

• Emotional distress and feelings of guilt or shame.

• Relationship difficulties and social isolation.

• Negative impact on mental health, including increased risk of depression and anxiety disorders.

People self-harm for a variety of complex reasons, and it's often a way of coping with overwhelming emotions or distressing situations. Some common reasons why individuals may engage in self-harm include:

• Emotional Regulation: Self-harm can provide a temporary release or relief from intense emotions such as anger, sadness, anxiety, or numbness. The physical pain may serve as a distraction from emotional pain or provide a sense of control when emotions feel overwhelming.

• Communication of Distress: For some individuals, self-harm serves as a way to express or communicate inner turmoil or distress when they find it difficult to verbalise their feelings. It can be a way to externalise internal pain and seek help or attention from others.

• Coping Mechanism: Self-harm may be learned as a maladaptive coping mechanism for dealing with stress, trauma, or difficult life circumstances. It can provide a temporary sense of relief or escape from emotional pain or traumatic memories.

• Self-Punishment: Some individuals may engage in self-harm as a form of self-punishment or self-destructive behaviour, often driven by feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness.

• Identity or Self-Definition: Self-harm may become part of an individual's identity or sense of self, particularly if they have struggled with it for an extended period. It can serve as a way to cope with feelings of emptiness or to feel a sense of control over one's body.

• Social Influence: Peer pressure or exposure to self-harming behaviours among friends or online communities can also contribute to the development of self-harm as a coping mechanism.

It's important to recognise that self-harm is a complex behaviour influenced by various psychological, social, and environmental factors. Individuals who self-harm often experience a range of emotions and may struggle with underlying issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or low self-esteem. Seeking professional help and support is crucial for addressing the underlying causes of self-harm and developing healthier coping strategies.