Understanding Self-Harm
Unfortunately, on television, it's not uncommon to see a character of a teenager who seems a little down. But then, it's shown briefly that the teen had several cuts along their arm, and the audience understands right away. Self-harm is often kept a secret, yet we all somewhat know what it is. So let's explore more of what self-harm is and how it is much more common than the archetypal teen displayed on TV.
Warning: it can be upsetting and potentially triggering to read information about self-harm. If you feel vulnerable now, you might not want to read the information below.
What is Self-Harm?
Self-harm or self-injury is described as hurting oneself on purpose and can affect anyone. Commonly, one will use a sharp object. However, if someone deliberately hurts themselves, it's classified as self-harm. It is any behavior that causes self-injury, regardless of the behavior or the risk involved.
Types of Self-Harm
- Cutting
- Overeating or undereating
- Excessive exercise
- Biting yourself
- Picking or scratching at your skin
- Picking at scabs and not allowing wounds to heal
- Burning your skin
- Misusing substances
- Pulling your hair out
Emotional Distress and Self-Harm
If you hurt yourself or think about harming yourself, it's a sign of emotional distress. Self-harm is typically used as a coping mechanism. These uncomfortable emotions may grow more intense if a person continues to use self-harm as a coping mechanism. Self-harm may also lead to feelings of shame.
Frequent self-harm can lead to scars, and it also takes a lot of time and energy to heal the wounds properly. Additionally, it can take time away from other activities, as time may be spent hiding scars or avoiding social situations due to shame.
Self-Harm vs. Suicide
It's also essential to distinguish self-harm from suicide. Self-harm is not the same as attempting suicide. However, that does not mean self-harm should be taken lightly. If someone engages in self-harm, they may have an increased risk of feeling suicidal.
Self-harm is a symptom of emotional pain that should be taken seriously. Finding other coping mechanisms to deal with these complicated underlying feelings is important.
Treatment for Self-Harm
Luckily, there are many effective coping mechanisms to help manage emotions and learn different skills rather than harming oneself.
Steps to Take
- Reach out to a trusted friend, adult, or medical professional. Reaching out for help is the first step.
- A licensed mental health professional can conduct a diagnostic interview to build a specified treatment plan.
- Depending on the underlying issues and severity, medication may be prescribed by a psychiatrist or doctor.
What to Do When Someone You Know Self-Harms
Maybe you have a loved one who has frequent injuries. You may notice they wear long sleeves or long pants, even when it's extremely hot out. They may be trying to hide the injury. Maybe you hear them say things that put themselves down, or they show signs of emotional distress.
How to Help
- Approach the individual and let them know you are here for them.
- Ask them how they are doing and expect the unexpected. Be prepared to feel uncomfortable.
- Validate their feelings; don't dismiss their emotions or belittle their experience.
- Let them know that while you may not understand, you are there to help.
- Encourage them to seek support and treatment.
You’re Not Alone: Reach Out for Help
This topic can be very uncomfortable. However, self-harm can be life-threatening and should never be taken lightly. Help is out there.
Sometimes, after telling someone, you may feel worse. But remember, that's completely normal. Don't fear someone else's reaction. Get the help you need, and sharing this can take the pressure off and get you the proper support and help available.
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