Self-Harm Behaviors

What are self-harm behaviors? How common is this type of destructive behavior? Who is at risk of developing this? These are some of the questions people are asking about self-harming behaviors. 1.4 out of every 100 people have developed a self-harm behavior. The most common form of self-harm is cutting. People use various instruments to cut themselves. The cuts range from superficial lacerations to deep gouges. Some people even begin burning themselves. This behavior is more common in woman than in men. There are no economic class, geographical, or cultural boundaries to this behavior.

The reasons are countless and very complex as to why someone would develop such a violent coping mechanism. Some use it as a way to deal with stress. Others may use it as a punishment to themselves for not believing they are good enough. Each person's reasons are unique, so he/she should be treated individually.

This type of behavior usually starts in adolescents and peaks when a person is in their twenties. It is important for a person to get professional treatment for this behavior.

What are self-harming behaviors?

• Causing physical harm to oneself, such as superficial cutting
• Burning
• Leaving a mark that lasts more than an hour
• Bruising
• Hitting oneself
• Banging one's head
• Ingesting sharp or toxic objects
  

These types of behaviors accompany a certain thought process. There can be signs one is engaging in self-harm behaviors if the person:

• repeatedly cuts or harms himself or herself
• displays a sense of tension that is present immediately before the act is committed to himself or herself
• displays a sense of relaxation, gratification, pleasant feelings or numbness experienced during and after the act
• displays a sense of shame and fear of social stigma
• attempts to hide scars, blood, or other evidence of self-harm
  

Researchers have identified certain traits self-injurers may exhibit:

• Strong dislike for oneself
• Hypersensitive to rejection
• Chronically angry at oneself
• Supressed anger
• Does not plan for future
• Avoidant
• Chronic anxiety

Try accepting reality and finding a way to make it more tolerable.

• Identify the tough emotions you are having and talk about them.
• Try counting to 10.
• Take deep breathes for 15 minutes.
• Squeeze ice.
• Bite into a lemon, lime, or grapefruit.

If someone you know or you child has told you that they have been hurting themselves, do not take it lightly. You can help. Be supportive. After all, they have started on the right path and brought their problem to the attention of someone else. So now what can you do?

• Encourage them to seek professional help.
• Don't take it personally.
• Educate yourself.
• Be patient with their feelings.
• Discuss problems and worries with them.
• Provide reassurance and security.
• Avoid role reversals--"Don't let the child become the parent".
• Be a positive role model for self-worth, conflict resolution, and flexibility.
• Show concern for the injuries.
• Acknowledge their pain.

Remember none of the strategies listed above can replace the help of a professional.

So please get professional help. Everyone needs help at some point in life.

For further information or to make a referral, contact McHenry County Youth Service Bureau 1-815-338-7360

Monday – Thursday 8:00 am – 8:30 pm
Friday 8:00 am – 3:00 pm