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.

Understanding Self-Harm

More about Depression