Self Injurious Behavior

Facts - Information below was adapted from Mental Health America http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/self-injury

What is it?

Self injury is when someone intentionally and repeatedly harms themselves. When most people think about self injury they think about cutting, however self injury can also be bruising, burning, self poisoning, breaking bones, pulling hair, or scratching.  Self injury does not necessarily mean that someone is suicidal, however, the self injurious behavior can end in death, often times, unintentionally. 

Who does it?

It’s estimated that about two million people in the U.S. injure themselves in some way.  The majority are teenagers or young adults with young women outnumbering young men. They are of all races and backgrounds.

Why do people self injure?

There can be many reasons why someone self injures.  The answers to that question can be as diverse as the people who do it.  Some of the most common responses to this question are; as an expression of pain or emotion they can't express or a way to take control when they feel they have little to no control in their lives.  It can also be a way to regulate intense emotions, or a way for people to retain a sense of identity and meaning.  

What do I do if I find out someone I care about is self harming?

• • Ask about it - Be kind and respectful.  Try not to judge or shame.

  • Express your concerns - Tell them that your worried and that you are there to support them.  They may not talk much about it.  You can let them know that if they don't want to talk to you about it, there are other options.  

    • • • RA/RD

        • Counseling Center

        • Nurse

        • Pastor

        • Family

• Seek support for yourself - Knowing that someone you care about is hurting and hurting themselves is stressful and can be scary. Consider talking to someone you trust about it.  Seek out the counseling center for yourself.  It's important to get support.  If you are supported, it may be easy for you to better support your friend/loved one.

• Remember, you are not responsible for their behavior -  When you find out that someone you care about is hurting themselves, it is difficult to not take it on as a responsibility.  You can not control what they do, you can only offer support and information.  Ultimately, it is up to them to stop and/or get help.   

What if I self injure, how can I help myself?

• • Know that there is help available -  People often feel like they can't talk about the self injurious behavior because people won't understand, won't like them anymore, or will think they are crazy.  If you don't feel like you can talk to a friend, try seeking help from another source.  The counseling center is an option.

  • Know you're not alone - This is not just something you do.  Others do as well and others have gotten help and have learned new ways of coping.  You can to.

  • Making change is possible -  If the only thing holding you back is hopelessness to change, change is not only possible but it is probable.  If you are ready, it can happen with the proper support.

  • Actively seek and accept help - If you're reading this, you're thinking about it.  Now is the time.  The longer you wait, the bigger the problem can be.  Talk to someone, schedule an appointment,  get started. 

Other Resources

Local Area Crisis Line: 1-888-568-1112

National Hotline: 1-800-DONT CUT (1-800-366-8288)

Mental Health America - Mental Health America is a community-based network dedicated to helping all Americans achieve wellness by living mentally healthier lives.

Suicide Prevention - Links you to resources on this website