SELF-HARM AND SAFETY RISK

Self-harm or self-injury refers to the act of intentionally hurting oneself. Common self-harming behaviors include cutting and overdosing. Self-harm is linked to a number of mental health disorders, including borderline personality disorder, depression, eating disorders, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder.

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Suicidal ideation or self-harm are signs of psychological distress. A person who engages in self-harming behaviors as a coping mechanism is a sign that they lack healthy coping mechanisms to handle their emotional distress; if left untreated, these unpleasant emotions may become more severe and distressing. Self-harming behaviors such as substance abuse or self-neglect may exacerbate the presenting problems.

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A person who engages in self-harming behaviors may feel shame and guilt afterwards. If the shame or guilt causes intense negative feelings, the individual may hurt themselves again. As a result, the behavior can become a self-destructive cycle. This can have a negative impact on a person's functioning, as well as their work and relationships.

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Self-harm is not the same as suicidal ideation. It is, however, a sign of emotional distress that should be taken seriously. If someone is self-harming, they may be more likely to contemplate suicide. Furthermore, self-harm is a behavior that suggests a lack of coping abilities, not a mental condition. Therefore, it is critical to seek therapy for treatment. Therapy can help with the development of healthy coping skills, reducing the severity of symptoms, and empowering the individual to cope in a healthy manner.