What is self-harm?

What is self-harm?

There’s a great deal of evidence that shows that self-harm is not an effective way to manage emotions. It’s important the people who self-harm are supported to develop alternative, healthy coping mechanisms.

Self-harm can mean something different for each individual. Alcohol and drug misuse, and eating disorders, can be very serious but aren’t usually considered to be self-harm.

Why do people self-harm?

The reasons for self-harm are complex and self-harm is rarely the result of one thing.

Self-harm is often used as a way of trying to feel release from difficult emotions, or expressing feelings that are hard to communicate.

We know that people who self-harm may feel distress particularly intensely and be especially likely to try to avoid thoughts and feelings which they find difficult.

Self-harm can become a repeated behaviour, used as a response to emotional distress.

Does self-harm mean someone is suicidal?

Just because someone is self-harming it does not necessarily mean they are suicidal.

There is an association between self-harm and suicide, though, and while most people who self-harm will not go on to take their own life, it is a sign of serious emotional distress and it should always be taken seriously.

Whilst some people may self-harm without wanting to take their own lives, they may also experience suicidal thoughts. This can change over time, and suicidal thoughts can come and go.

Read more about what to do if someone you know is suicidal.