selfharm

Self-harm, or self-injury, refers to deliberate non-suicidal actions that injure the body. Common forms include cutting, scratching, burning, or hitting oneself, as well as pulling hair or interfering with healing injuries. Self-harm is a coping strategy for intense distress and may be used to regulate emotions, communicate distress, or gain a sense of control. It is not the same as attempting suicide, though it can be associated with increased suicide risk.

Who experiences it: Self-harm occurs across ages but often begins in adolescence or young adulthood. It is more frequently reported among people with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder, and those who have experienced trauma or abuse. It also co-occurs with substance use or chronic pain.

Recognizing signs: Unexplained injuries, wearing long sleeves in warm weather, repeated mentions of pain or numbness, or statements about coping by hurting oneself can be indicators. A health professional can assess safety, underlying mental health conditions, and suicide risk.

Treatment and support: Care typically combines safety assessment with psychotherapy and supportive interventions. Evidence-based therapies include dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), focusing on emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and coping skills. Addressing underlying conditions, trauma, and social factors is important; medications may be used for co-occurring conditions.

Prevention and safety planning: Building coping skills, reducing access to means, and fostering supportive networks can reduce risk. If you or someone is in immediate danger, contact emergency services. In the United States, call or text 988 for crisis support; in the United Kingdom, Samaritans 116 123; in Canada, Talk Suicide 1-833-456-4566; in Australia, Lifeline 13 11 14.