23 Aug
Self-harm is an often misunderstood behavior that can be a sign of deep psychological distress or a symptom of a complex mental health disorder. When you know the warning signs for self-harm, you will be better prepared to recognize if someone you know is in crisis, so they can get the care they need.
If you or someone you love is struggling with self-harm or mental health challenges, don’t wait to seek help. Call us today, or visit our admissions page to take the first step toward healing.
What Is Self-Harm?
To recognize the warning signs for self-harm, it can first be important to review the variety of behaviors that can fall under this term.
Self-harm, which is also called self-injury, self-mutilation, and nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI), is the intentional infliction of physical damage or pain on your own body. Common acts of self-harm include:
- Pulling out your hair
- Cutting, scratching, biting, or burning your skin
- Inserting needles or other sharp objects underneath your skin
- Punching yourself
- Hitting your head or limbs against hard objects
- Exercising excessively
- Denying yourself food or water
As indicated by the NSSI term, self-harming behaviors are not intended to be suicide attempts. However, in some circumstances these behaviors can lead to accidental fatalities. Also, self-harm can be a precursor to suicidal thoughts or actions.
To underscore the danger of self-harm:
- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Self-harm caused 660,000 emergency room visits in the United States in 2021.
- A May 2020 study in the journal Psychiatry Research found that more than 50% of people who intentionally injure themselves present a “significant suicide risk.”
Why Do People Harm Themselves?
People who intentionally self-harm may do so for a variety of reasons, such as:
- The behavior is related to depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or another mental health concern.
- They are attempting to punish themselves for what they believe to be a failure, character flaw, or some other personal shortcoming.
- They have been exposed to overwhelming stress or pressure. Or they are living with untreated trauma – and they are unable to cope in a healthy manner. Self-harm is a way of giving physical presence to their emotional distress.
- They believe that they have lost (or never had) control of their life. Inflicting injury or pain on their body is a way of establishing a modicum of control.
- They know they need help, but they are unable to put this knowledge into words. Self-harm is an attempt to signal to others that they are in crisis.
Self-harm is a treatable condition – but before a person can get help, they may need someone else to recognize the signs and intervene on their behalf. At Novu Wellness, we specialize in compassionate care and tailored treatment plans designed to address the underlying issues that lead to self-harm, helping individuals find healthier ways to cope and heal.
Warning Signs for Self-Harm
People who have been intentionally injuring themselves often go to great lengths to hide evidence of what they have been doing. This can make it difficult, but not impossible, to detect warning signs for self-harm.
If you suspect that a friend or family member has been harming themselves, keep an eye out for signs such as:
Physical Signs of Self-Harm
- Refusing to change clothes in front of other people
- Always wearing long sleeves and/or long pants, even in hot weather
- Frequently incurring injuries such as broken bones or serious bruising
- Having cuts, bruises, or sores that never seem to fully heal
- Having several unexplained scars
Warning signs for self-harm can also include behaviors that aren’t directly related to the harm itself, such as:
Behavioral Signs of Self-Harm
- Expecting perfection, and being extremely disappointed with themselves when they believe they have fallen short of this expectation
- Frequently making self-deprecating or self-critical remarks
- Exhibiting sudden and dramatic changes in mood, attitude, and energy
- Pulling away from family and friends, and spending substantial amounts of time alone
If someone that you care about has been exhibiting these types of signs, don’t ignore your suspicions. Here’s how you can help and what to say to someone who is self-harming, depending on your relationship with them:
- If they aren’t a friend or family member, the best approach may be to express your concerns to someone who is close to them.
- If they are a close friend or loved one, have a conversation about what you’ve been seeing. Emphasize your love and support, and be clear that you aren’t judging or criticizing them.
- Encourage them to consult with their primary physician or another qualified professional. This person can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Important note: If you fear that someone you know is at risk of suicide, you can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline online or by calling or texting 988 (from the U.S. only).
This free resource is available 24/7. It is staffed by trained professionals who can provide actionable advice and connect you with appropriate resources in your area.
Find Treatment for Self-Harm At Novu Wellness in Atlanta
If someone that you care about has been engaging in self-harm, the Novu Wellness team is here to help.
Programming options at our mental health treatment center in Atlanta, Georgia, include a partial hospitalization program (PHP) and an intensive outpatient program (IOP), as well as evening and virtual IOP options.
We will work closely with your loved one to assess the full scope of their needs. Then identify the programs and services that can put them on the path toward a healthier and more hopeful future. Every step of the way, they can expect to receive personalized care and comprehensive support from a team of experienced and compassionate professionals.
To learn more about how we can help, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Admissions page or call us today.
