Understanding Self-Harm: Why It Happens and How to Help
Self-harm, such as cutting, is a distressing and perplexing problem that involves many teenagers. It's usually a method for managing intense feelings, but it can be intimidating to the person who is doing it and to those who know them. If you or someone you know is hurting themselves, it helps to learn about why it's occurring and how to develop more constructive ways of healing.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
Self-injury isn't about attention-seeking it's more often an indication of severe emotional distress. Some of the most common reasons are:
- Overpowering feelings – When sadness, anger, or stress is too much to handle, self-harm can feel like relief.
- Numbness – Some hurt themselves to "feel something" when they're emotionally closed off.
- Punishment – Guilt or low self-esteem may cause self-punishment.
- Control – When things get overwhelming, self-harm may be the only sense of control a person feels.
What Can You Do to Help? Why Self-Harm Happens & How to Help
If someone close to you is self-harming, this is how you can help:
- Stay Calm and Listen
- Don't panic or judge. Tell them that you care about them and are there for them to listen.
- Avoid telling them "Just stop" – it's not that easy.
- Encourage Professional Help
- Therapy (such as CBT or DBT) can assist in discovering healthier ways to cope.
- A physician can screen for underlying conditions such as depression or anxiety.
- Provide Healthier Options
- Distraction strategies – Drawing, writing, or squeezing ice can shift the craving.
- Exercise – Running, dancing, or yoga can dissipate tension.
- Urge delay – Waiting 10-15 minutes before doing something is short-term reduction of impulse.
- Establish a Safe Environment
- Take away or restrict access to sharp objects where possible.
- Encourage them to develop a support system of caring friends or adults.
If You're Having Trouble with Self-Harm
You don't have to face it alone, and there is help available. Try:
- Talking about it with a trusted person.
- Writing things down rather than hurting yourself.
Calling a counselor or helpline.
Self-injury is a symptom of emotional distress, not weakness. With compassion, care, and the correct assistance, there can be healing. If you or someone you care about is hurting, don't wait to get help—you are deserving of care and compassion.
NOTE: – IT IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. ALL DATA SHARED HERE ARE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
