Understanding and coping with self-harm

Self-harm is typically a way people respond to severe anxiety or depression. When left untreated, this can become life-threatening as it indicates mental instability. Self-harm often refers to a person's actions toward intentionally harming themselves. Many people who engage in self-harm are not initially trying to end their lives. It is more like a last-ditch attempt to gain a sense of control when they feel they have lost it.

Self-Harm Comes in Different Forms

There are many different forms and symptoms of self-harm. Knowing these can better equip you to notice them in yourself or others before it gets out of control. It's best to remember that self-harm is all-inclusive of any harm to the self on purpose.

Types of Self-Harm:

• ●  Cutting

• ●  Burning

• ●  Scratching

• ●  Hitting Oneself for any reason

• ●  Pulling out hair (from the head, face, or other body parts)

• ●  Piercing the skin with sharp objects

• ●  Re-opening past wounds

Symptoms/Warning Signs:

• ●  Frequent open wounds

• ●  Scars

• ●  Frequently wearing long sleeves or pants, even in hot weather

• ●  Poor social skills

• ●  Fractured self-image

• ●  Low self-esteem

• ●  Emotional Instability

• ●  Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness

• ●  PTSD

Dealing/Coping With Self-Harm

If you are ever feeling urges to harm yourself, please seek the help of a trusted friend or professional. If you feel overwhelmed and don't know where to turn, you can call or text this Self-harm Crisis Hotline for access to a crisis counselor anytime.

Other healthy ways to cope with self-harm include journaling when you feel overwhelmed. This can help you process your feelings and may even provide some clarity. You can try to channel your energy into something creative like art or music. Anything that can help you work through what you are feeling will be helpful to redirect your thoughts and energy.

Seek a calm space where you can breathe deeply and return to yourself. Sometimes when we feel overwhelmed, it isn't necessarily coming from within us. It can help to change your environment if you feel it is playing any role in your discomfort.

Remember that your mental health is detrimental to living a healthy lifestyle. If you, or someone you love, is battling depression or anxiety, the best thing you can do is seek help. Whether that help comes from within, a support group, or a professional. Nobody is ever alone in their struggle.