Self-harm, or non-suicidal self-injury, is the deliberate act of causing injuries to one's body. It is generally a manifestation of deeper issues like depression, extreme anxiety, and anguish. People who practice self-harm are looking to numb emotional suffering or keep a feeling of control over their lives.

If left untreated, self-harm can compromise the mental and physical well-being of the person who goes through it. That's why therapy is essential since it will help put a stop to it and its ramifications.

Warning Signs of Self-Harm

Following self-harm, individuals may try to hide their behavior from others, especially the people they care about. But even then, the act can be recognized then addressed.

Here are some warning signs that a person is practicing self-harm:

• Scars and suspicious injuries. Often, when someone engages in self-injury, they leave behind unexplained and suspicious cuts, bruises and scratches. Which they may claim were the results of an accident.
• Possessing sharp objects and tools. The individual may have a collection of sharp or pointy items and tools that seem out of place, such as pocket knives or razors.
• Wearing concealing clothing. The person may start to wear clothes that cover the skin, such as long sleeves and hoodies. It is even more of a warning sign if the weather doesn't warrant it.
• Bloodied possessions. Blood on clothes and items belonging to the person who practices self-harm is common. Since no matter how careful they are, they often leave traces.
• Social isolation. Lastly, people who suffer from non-suicidal self-injury spend much of their time alone and withdrawn from social interactions.

Causes Of Self-Harm

Self-harm is often a coping mechanism to deal with overwhelming emotions of pain and discomfort. It is the use of physical pain as a response to an emotional one.

Causes of self-harm can be:

• To express pain when they can't communicate how they feel.
• To feel a sense of control after going through a traumatic event that left them powerless.
• To punish themselves for past wrongs or self-perceived flaws.
• To get some semblance of emotion, especially when they feel emotionally numb.
• To distract themselves from anger, loneliness, or worry.

Getting Help With Self-Harm

Even though self-harm is a coping mechanism for emotional pain and distress, it still is a dangerous condition that can lead to numerous problems. It affects the physical and emotional state of the individual. It also has the potential to ruin relationships and careers.

If you or anyone you care about self-harms, a therapist can prescribe ways to handle painful emotions healthily, without injuring the body.

Mental health professionals have the necessary training to diagnose self-harm, the reasons behind it, plus show you and your loved ones better coping mechanisms.

Insight Therapy offers self-harm therapy and self-harm counseling. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation.