Self Harm

What is self harm?

Self harm is ANY type of action performed with the intent of causing yourself pain or discomfort. Many young people are unaware that what they are doing is considered self harm.  There are many reasons for self harming. You may feel the urge to self harm if you are feeling anxious, depressed, stressed or bullied.

Some behaviours can be confused with self harm such as picking your skin and hair. This is called self injury as there is no intent of causing self harm but is done for another reason instead.

Self harm is difficult to talk about, however you are not alone. 

Types of self harm

Self harm is not always physical. Self harm can also be emotional and mental. Examples include:

• Eating disorders
• Cutting
• Burning
• Drug or substance misuse
• Fighting 
• Negative self talk
• Self restriction 

Why do young people self harm?

There can be many reasons for people to self harm including:

• To feel something if they are emotionally numb
• To punish themselves
• As an unhealthy coping mechanism to “feel better”
• To deal with their emotions or feel in control
• As a silent cry for help (visible, physical self harm)

Ways to deal with it

Asking for help is not always easy and can take a lot of courage. It can feel scary and depending on your situation there may be different things for you to consider.

If you think you're affected by self harm then talk to someone, for example a parent, guardian or relative you trust or perhaps a teacher? If you don't feel as though you can confide in anyone, talk to your GP.

If you would like to begin finding techniques to reduce your self harming before getting help from others, here are some safe techniques. 

• Fill a bowl with cold water and ice. Do some ice dunks. It will help you to calm down and shock yourself into avoiding panic attacks. It is also soothing. 
• Exercise is also a good method of distraction. It will release endorphins which relieve pain and reduce stress as well as helping you to feel better!
• Punch cushions or a punching bag if you have one!
• Write down your thoughts (on paper) and tear it up.
• Dance around your room!
• Watch your favourite show, have a nap, cuddle a soft toy.
• Tidy your room, organise something, write a list.
• Smell something strong or take a shower.
• Write your feelings down.
• Realise you don't have to be perfect and mistakes are natural.

Why talk to your GP? Self harm can be a sign of other problems that you need help with such as depression or anxiety and they can refer you to the right people for treatment. Your GP will be aware of different local services which may be able to offer you some help. 

Treating Injuries. You may well need treatment quickly for injuries from self harming. If you have any open wounds, they may require a dressing. A school nurse or GP may be able to treat the injuries themselves or may refer you to hospital. If you take more than your prescribed dosage, or a pill or tablet that is not prescribed for you, you will require urgent care via emergency services.