Self-harm
Self-harm is a deliberate act by someone who intends to harm themselves in some way. This can include taking drugs and drinking alcohol excessively to cause harm but is different from taking drugs for pleasure.
Among the most commons ways are:
- Cutting
- burning
- causing physical harm by banging against something or hitting
- scratching
- poisoning (including alcohol and drugs).
Why do people self-harm?
There are many reasons why people self-harm. Each person who self-harms has his or her own reason. The most common are:
- Controlling Mood
- Communicating Feelings
- Self Punishment
Help for Self-harm
The first option for people to get help for self harm is through their GP. They should receive a mental health assessment and be referred to specialist mental health services if necessary. Treatments can include:
Cognitive behavioural therapy
Cognitive analytic therapy
Psychotherapy
Medication
Dialectical behavioural therapy
- Interpersonal group therapy
Often when people self harm their first contact with health services is through Accident and Emergency Departments. After receiving the appropriate emergency treatment they should undergo a psychological assessment and be referred to local mental health teams.
For more information about how you can help yourself or someone you know who is self harming please read our Self-harm Factsheet
