selftrauma

Self-harm, or intentional self-injury, is the deliberate damage of one’s body tissue. It is used to cope with distress and may occur with or without suicidal intent. When there is no explicit suicidal intent, it is often called non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI); some individuals experience both NSSI and suicidal behavior.

Common methods include cutting, burning, scratching, or hitting oneself. Physical risks include infections, scarring, and lasting tissue damage. Self-harm is most common in adolescence and young adulthood and is associated with psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress, and histories of trauma or abuse. It can also occur with chronic illness or social isolation.

Motivations include emotion regulation, relief from intense emotion, self-punishment, and communication of distress. It may function as a coping strategy when other supports are unavailable.

In clinical care, assessment focuses on safety, psychiatric comorbidity, and risk of suicide. Treatments with evidence include dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), aimed at reducing self-harm and improving coping. Mindfulness-based approaches and family or school-based interventions can be helpful. Pharmacotherapy may target underlying disorders.

Crisis planning and support are important. If there is imminent danger, contact emergency services. For urgent crisis help, call local hotlines or emergency numbers; in the U.S., 988 provides suicide and crisis support. Reducing access to potential means and providing nonjudgmental care can reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking.