Many of us deal with overpowering stressors and issues in our lives that require us to take a deep breath and step away from the situation to refocus. The process of feeling “in control” may involve self-injurious behaviors as a way to cope with overwhelming emotional situations; negative or numb emotions, as well as sadness. Self-injury provides a way to experience some sense of feeling, and an avenue to relieve stress or pressure.
Self-injury is most commonly associated with intentional cutting or puncturing of the skin, scratching, burning, ripping or pulling skin or hair, and self-bruising. Injuries are found most often on the hands/wrists, stomach, legs/thighs and often kept hidden. People who self-injure are not seeking attention and often feel ashamed. Some signs of possible self-injuring include: unexplained cuts, scratches or burns; wearing long sleeved shirts and pants, even during warm weather; possessing razor blades, knives, or other sharp objects; having friends who self-injure; spending increasingly less time with friends and family; or when upset locking themselves in a room.
People who self-injure can be of any age, race, or background and are more likely to have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; low self-esteem and negative self-image; be depressed or anxious; be “overachievers” or “perfectionists”; and have a history of substance abuse or an eating disorder. Self-injury most often begins in adolescence between the ages of 12 and 15; and can last for weeks, months, and even into adulthood.
Despite popular belief, self-injury is considered a non-suicidal act, and is often used as a means to avoid suicide. However, self-injury should not be considered harmless. Infections and other problems can result as few individuals seek medical attention for injuries, even when severe. Self-injury should always be taken seriously, particularly when practiced regularly and when using methods that cause significant damage to the body. Available treatment options include psychotherapy, family therapy, and medication.
Recovering from self-injury can be a complex process. Discontinuing the behavior involves learning new ways to embrace, tolerate, and transform highly emotional feelings. Four factors that can contribute to the recovery process are: motivation, openness and honesty with oneself, an involved support system, and a commitment to treatment and self-care. The first steps of recovery may seem overwhelming. Some tips for success - keep track of your positive attributes, connect with family and friends for support, meet with a professional for treatment, find a place where you feel safe, and make a list of the people you can contact when you feel like injuring yourself. Finding new ways of coping with difficult feelings can help to suppress the urges that lead to self-injury. Examples include exercising, dancing, listening to music, playing a game, gardening; or calling a friend can allow you to release your anger, sadness, or depression without harm.
If you suspect or are aware of a friend or loved one injuring themselves let them know that you care. Find a quiet time and place to talk calmly, allow time for them to open up, listen to what they have to say without being judgmental, and offer to get help. Self-injuring will not go away on its own and can worsen if ignored. It the event the injury is serious seek immediate medical attention.
Self-injury is an increasing behavior among adolescents and young adults. Being aware of what it is, what it is not, how to detect it, and respectively intervene is important for everyone to know. For more information contact Gratiot County Community Mental Health at (989) 463-4971 or (800) 622-5583. National organizations are available as well; Mental Health America at www.mentalhealthamerica.net by email or by phone (800) 969-6642 or the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at www.aacap.org