March is Self-Harm Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness for an often-stigmatized, rarely-discussed subject that is more common than you may think. In fact, about 17% of adolescents reported engaging in self-harm at least once, according to the American Psychological Association.
The good news: self-harm recovery is possible. We’re shining a light on this complex topic by sharing information, offering hope and helping to break the stigma. Keep reading for more about self-harm, including warning signs, risk factors and treatment options.
What is self-harm?
Nonsuicidal Self-Injury Disorder—more commonly known as self-harm—is the act of intentionally engaging in self-injurous, non-suicidal behaviors. Self-harm can take many forms: cutting, burning, picking, scratching or piercing one’s skin, hitting oneself or even engaging in harmful, risky behaviors.
You might wonder, “Why would someone hurt themselves?” There is no singular reason individuals engage in this behavior. For some, it’s an outlet for expressing deep emotional pain in a physical form. For others, it’s a way of asserting control in situations where they might feel powerless, or even punishment for what they feel are shameful or wrong choices.
Self-harm is most common among adolescents and young adults, with sexual minorities and those who are bullied more likely to self-injure than others. It’s important to note that self-harm is often a secretive behavior, with affected individuals often going to great lengths to cover up what they’re doing.
What are self-harm risk factors?
Self-harm behavior affects people of all races, ages and genders, but those who self-harm are more likely to have experienced extreme emotional distress, trauma, abuse or other environmental stressors.
Individuals with certain mental health disorders may have an increased risk of self-harm, including those who suffer from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and eating disorders. Substance use and self-harm are linked, and those who use substances while self-harming are at a higher risk for severe injury or death. Exposure to self-harm is also a risk factor, as many teens who self-harm report that they learned about it from friends, peers or on social media.
About 17% of adolescents reported engaging in self-harm at least once. -American Psychological Association
What are ways to support those who self-harm?
If you suspect someone close to you is self-harming or experiencing thoughts of self-harm, the most important thing you can do is offer your support. Simply spending time with someone who is struggling and offering to listen without judgment to better understand what they’re going through—as opposed to trying to “fix” their problem—can make all the difference. Plus, you can help to monitor their safety and urge them to seek medical care if their behavior has caused physical harm that needs attention.
What help is out there for those struggling with self-harm?
Regardless of whether someone has self-harmed only a few times or if they are engaging in an ongoing pattern of behavior, it’s important to seek professional help to address underlying issues while preventing potentially life-threatening injuries that could stem from this behavior. Those who self-harm often do so as a reaction to certain situations or triggers, and professionals can work with them to identify triggers and healthy coping strategies. Support groups can be particularly helpful, as they provide a safe space for individuals to connect with those who are going through similar experiences and encourage a healthy outlet for expressing feelings.
Remember: you are not alone. If self-harm is something you or a loved one struggles with, we can help. Visit our website at CTI-OK.org or give us a call at 918-384-0002 to learn more about our services.
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