Self-harm is when someone intentionally harms their own body without the intention of suicide. Also called self-injury, it can take different forms. Cutting, hitting and burning are a few examples. Experts believe that people self-harm to cope with strong emotions.

Why do people do it?

People who have been abused, experienced trauma or neglect have the highest risk for self-injury behaviors. But people without those experiences can self-harm, as well. Self-harming is an unhealthy way to deal with emotional pain. The act of harming provides the person with a feeling of relief from the strong emotions.

Is self-harm a mental illness?

Self-harm is not a mental illness. However, it is related to some mental health conditions such as anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although self-harm is typically not intended as a suicide attempt, people who harm themselves may be at increased risk for suicidal thinking.

How common is it?

College students and teens are at the highest risk for self-harm. Studies show that college students have rates between 17 and 35% (this means that 17-35 students out of 100 are self-harming in some way). Teen rates are lower, but still alarming at 15%. Compare this to only 4% for U.S. adults.

Warning signs of self-harm 

  • Frequently reporting accidents or injuries 
  • Wearing long-sleeved shirts or long pants when it’s hot out (to cover marks or injuries) 
  • Impulsive, unpredictable or unstable behaviors or moods 
  • Keeping sharp things with them, such as razor blades 
  • Saying they feel helpless, worthless or like there’s no hope 

What can I do?   

  • For my child? If your child tells you they are self-harming, it is important to take them seriously and to seek professional support. You can speak with your child’s doctor for a referral to a mental health professional.  
  • For my adult friend or family member? If you suspect someone is self-harming (see signs above), learn about self-harm so you are informed. Be available to really listen to them. Encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional. 
  • For myself? If you are self-harming, know that you have the ability stop and help is available. Reaching out to a trusted family member or friend is a good first step. With their support, you can research different ways of coping. Or you can talk with a mental health professional. They can provide support and help you get treatment if needed. 

Self-harm involves hurting oneself on purpose. People do it for relief from stress and strong emotions. If you or someone you know is self-harming, know that it is treatable. Finding different ways to cope or working with a mental health professional can help stop the behavior.

If you or a loved one are in crisis and need immediate support, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any time, 24/7. If you are in a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

 

Sources:

Mayo Clinic. Self-injury/cutting.  April 6, 2023.

National Alliance on Mental Illness. Self-harm. Accessed May 3, 2024.

American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Adolescent Self-Harm. Accessed May 3, 2024.

Mental Health America. Self-injury (cutting, self-harm or self-mutilation).  Accessed May 3, 2024.

Nemours Kids Health. Helping teens who self-harm. June 22, 2024.