Self-Harm

Self-harm (also known as self-mutilation) is a complex behaviour that is often, although not exclusively, practised by those suffering from an Eating Disorder. Even though there is the possibility that a self inflicted injury could be fatal, self-harm is not considered to be suicidal behaviour.

There are numerous and varied reasons why a person might self-harm. Some of these include:

• To help externalize emotional internal pain
• To relieve intense feelings of anxiety
• To be able to feel anything (instead of a sense of "numbness")
• To release anger
• To punish self (related to an overwhelming self-loathing)
• To control pain (as opposed to external abuse - eg sexual or physical which is beyond the individual's control)
• To manipulate others (eg instill a sense of guilt)
• To break emotional numbness (the ability to cut without feeling pain)
• To attract attention (cry for help)
• Etc

Equally there are many ways in which a person may perform the act of self-harming. These include:

• Cutting (usually with knives, razor blades or glass)
• Burning
• Banging head against a hard surface (often a wall)
• Punching
• Hitting
• Scratching
• Stabbing
• Etc

Identifying the underlying issues or disorders behind this behaviour, tackling the devastatingly low self-esteem and exploring historic events that may have led to the development of this practice are key constituents in treating this problem.

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