Self harm isn’t just cutting or burning yourself, it could be drinking Red Bull after Red Bull, lighting another cigarette, or spending every last penny you have on unnecessary things. Isolation, hypersexuality, and binge eating are rarely seen as self-harm, but to those with a mental illness, they can be as, if not more, harmful than cutting or burning, and less conspicuous.
What is self harm?
Self harm, by definition, is the deliberate action of causing harm to oneself, and is a sign of emotional distress. According to the Diagnostic Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, or DSM-5, self harm was previously known as non suicidal self-injury disorder, and these self-destructive behaviors have zero intention of suicide. Adolescents are at the highest risk for self-harm injury, and males and females have comparable rates of self harm.
Those who self harm oftentimes have a deep, underlying disorder, such as bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder. Self harm stems from a deep hatred of oneself, and can sometimes be used as an escape from depressed feelings; Some self harm in order to feel pain, something other than sadness. Those who are hypersexual, or promiscuous, may use others to feel good about themselves, thus decreasing the feelings of self-hatred. Eating disorders are a common form of self harm, as many sufferers tend to binge eat until they hate themselves, and then purge in order to feel better.
Isolation
Yet another way people self harm is isolating themselves from their friends and loved ones. As humans, we need social interaction, some more than others. By isolating ourselves, we take away a basic human necessity. Although isolation is not always considered a self harm behavior, motivations for isolating oneself can help determine if it is truly self harm behavior, or a symptom of depression.
Substances
Excessive drug or alcohol use is considered a “numbing” strategy, and can be detrimental to your mental health. Using substances such as alcohol, illicit drugs, or even caffeine, can cause significant bodily harm if used in excess. Many times, this is not seen as self harm; However, even unintentionally, it can cause harm to one’s body and mind. Most substances and alcohol are both central nervous system, or CNS depressants, and should not be mixed with psychiatric medication of any kind.
Money
Overspending is yet another unknown way people self harm, as millions of people overspend every day. But when is it considered self harm? When we live beyond our financial means, and choose a new pair of shoes instead of buying groceries, it can be considered a self harming behavior.
Cutting
Cutting oneself is one of the most common ways to self harm; It is known to make up from 70% to 90% of self harm, and is seen in up to 4% of adults in the United States, and is typically used to cope with emotional pain, anger, and frustration. It often is used as a coping skill for those feeling hopeless, and sometimes can lead to a suicide attempt. Burning oneself makes up anywhere from 15% to 35% of self harm, and can be done with matches, cigarettes, or heated objects.
Someone you love may be self harming if they have patterns of scars on specific parts of their body, such as their thighs, stomach, or arms. They may have fresh, unexplained bruises, cuts, or other wounds on their body, and they may wear long sleeves or pants on the hottest day of the year. Oftentimes, behavioral and emotional instability has been seen in those who self harm, as well as impulsivity and unpredictability. In order to help those you love that may be self harming, you should never accuse them; Rather, be supportive of them, and let them know that you are there for them, and they are loved.
What to do about self harm
If you are engaging in self harm behavior, the first thing you should do is tell somebody you trust. Reaching out for help is not easy by any means, but it is easier than living a life in a body you hate. Any and every self harm behavior is a warning sign of a larger mental health issue. It is never too late to break the cycle, and get help, before you spiral deeper and deeper into the self harm hole.
Although there is no textbook cause for self harm, there are a few reasons behind it. The most common reason for self harm is self hatred. Furthermore, poor coping skills and difficulty managing emotions or impulses are more reasons behind one self harming. Often, those who self harm get a sense of relief from the destructive behavior, and feel something other than sadness, for just that moment. It may feel addictive to the person, and they “chase the high” that the self harm gives them.
There are a few risk factors behind self harm, such as surrounding oneself with others that self harm, life issues, and mental health issues. Genetics and childhood experiences also may contribute to self harm.
If you or somebody you know become severely injured from a self harm behavior, such as alcohol poisoning, intentionally drinking a toxic substance, or extreme cutting, contact your local emergency number. Furthermore, if you or your loved one are contemplating suicide, reach out to your support system and go to your nearest emergency mental health facility.