Self-harm can be a way to deal with difficult feelings. The person may harm themselves to feel better, but the motivations behind this behaviour vary widely. Some people use self-harm to punish hatred or other feelings that they cannot express to other people. People who self-harm may not understand the feelings they have and cannot relate them to events. Others may punish themselves as a way to express displaced anger. Regardless of the motivations behind self-harm, the act of harming oneself can be harmful.
Self-harm is a coping technique
People who use self-harm as a coping mechanism may feel unable to express their feelings through speech. Instead, they find it easier to express themselves through physical pain. Usually, they think their feelings are too intense or overwhelming to express through words. They also turn to self-harm to relieve pressure and tension. Sometimes, these people want to show others how they feel, but most of them try to conceal their actions.
In many cases, treatment can help a person overcome the urge to self-harm. A person suffering from this urge may need medical treatment immediately, or they may have an underlying problem. A good first step in getting help is talking to a doctor about the problem. A qualified mental health care provider will be able to determine whether it is a coping mechanism or a symptom of a more serious illness.
It is a sign of emotional distress
Self harm is an extremely serious symptom of emotional distress and requires immediate attention. This behavior is often accompanied by other symptoms of emotional distress such as poor impulse control and difficulty getting along with others. People who are concerned about a loved one may approach a mental health professional to get a diagnosis. Counselling can help people stabilise their thinking, find the source of their emotional distress and learn to address the distress. Self-harmers may also seek medical attention. A visit to the emergency room may be required in severe cases.
If a preteen friend is threatening suicide, they should contact their pediatrician, who can assess their health and refer them to a mental health professional for further treatment. However, it's important to remember that they shouldn't yell at them or force them to talk to a friend or teacher. Instead, parents and family members should gently express their concern and encourage the individual to seek medical help. If the self-harming patient is not willing to talk to family and friends, they should call 911.
It can be dangerous
A conversation about self-harm is an extremely important step. A trained counsellor will help you determine the risk level for the conversation. You may find it helpful to write out what you want to say in advance. If you find it difficult to write, yell, or scream, you can also use a website like Wysa to record your thoughts and feelings. Ultimately, the aim of the conversation is to help you find an alternative way to cope with the pain of self-harm.
The use of self-harm may also be an attempt to punish unpleasant feelings or behaviours. If you are self-harming due to feelings of hatred, you may not fully understand the reason behind your actions. In some cases, the feelings you are experiencing are not linked to anything, so you may not be able to understand them or connect them to a specific event. Some people may be so angry that they cannot express their feelings in any other way.
It is treatable
While you may think that self harm is an untreatable condition, it is treatable, and there are many ways to overcome this affliction. In addition to psychotherapy, there are also various treatment options available to help you overcome your problem. One of the most important steps towards recovery is getting some sleep and using soothing techniques like meditation or journaling. For a more intensive treatment plan, psychiatric hospitalization or day treatment programs are available. In addition to these, education and support groups are available for you and your family.
Most individuals who engage in self harming behaviors do so in private and are not easily detected. They usually cause physical damage to their torso, legs, or arms. Self harm can be an addictive behavior, leading to chronic damage. While self-harming can be treated, it can lead to other problems if it becomes a habit. However, it is important to note that treatment is possible and it is a common sign of a larger problem, such as depression, substance abuse, or other mental health problems.
