Understanding and Addressing Self Harm: A Guide for Young People and Their Families
It is a deeply troubling and often painful experience to engage in self-harm, especially when one feels that there are no apparent reasons for such behavior. A young person who reached out expressed this sentiment recently: ‘I get it. I’ve just started self-harming and there’s no reason for me to do it but I keep being pulled back. Maybe we should look into what has happened in my past and ask if I want to feel the pain. Do I want someone to notice? I don’t know what to do either, but I know we both need help.’
What Could Be Driving Self Harm?
Self-harm can be a complex and deeply rooted behavioral issue. While it might seem that there are no problems in your life at the moment, self-harm can often be a way of coping with underlying emotional distress that you might not be fully aware of. Here are a few perspectives on why someone might engage in such behavior:
Looking for Excitement and an Endorphin Rush
For some, self-harm can serve as a form of seeking an adrenaline rush or excitement, similar to what the individual might be feeling. This could be due to a lack of engaging experiences or a need for a short-term boost in feel-good hormones (endorphins). However, while such actions may provide a temporary diversion, they can also lead to longer-term psychological and physical harm.
Unresolved Emotional Issues
It is possible that self-harm is a way of expressing hidden emotions or unresolved past experiences. Feeling unloved, for instance, can be an underlying factor that contributes to self-harm behaviors. If you are struggling to cope with these emotions, it is crucial to seek help from mental health professionals who can assist in providing the necessary support and therapy.
Seeking Professional Help
One parent’s experience offers a cautionary tale: ‘My daughter was similar to you in that it was a little endorphin rush. We tried to get her help. When self-harming, by cutting in her case, she turned to drugs. First, pot, then heavier drugs. She is now in her mid-thirties and has been homeless for over ten years, with drugs consuming her every thought. I don’t wish that fate on anyone. Please seek help.’
This parent’s experience highlights the potential dangers of untreated self-harm behaviors, which can escalate and lead to more severe issues such as drug addiction and homelessness. It is essential to prioritize your mental and emotional health and seek assistance from qualified professionals.
Steps to Take for Psychological Support
Here are some steps you can take to address self-harm behaviors:
1. Consult a Mental Health Professional
Engage in therapy with a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist or therapist, who can provide guided support and interventions.
Consider joining support groups where you can connect with others who have similar experiences and work through your challenges together.
Explore online resources and apps designed to support individuals dealing with emotional distress and self-harm.
2. Reach Out to Hotlines and Support Networks
Contact a youth help line or a mental health hotline to get immediate assistance and guidance.
Reach out to friends, family members, or trusted adults who can offer emotional support and help you navigate the next steps.
3. Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Experiment with different coping strategies, such as mindfulness, meditation, or physical exercise, to manage stress and improve your overall well-being.
Write in a journal to express your feelings and work through them on paper.
Conclusion
The journey to overcoming self-harm behaviors is not easy, but it is possible with the right resources and support. Whether you are a young person struggling with self-harm or a family member looking to support a loved one, it is crucial to prioritize mental health and seek help from qualified professionals. By taking the steps outlined above and maintaining a strong support network, you can find the help you need to overcome these challenges and lead a healthier, happier life.