Self-injury is also called self-harm or self-mutilation and is defined as any intentional injury to one’s body. Self-injury includes cutting, burning, picking, hair pulling, head banging, hitting or bone breaking.

According to WebMD “Self-injury can occur in either sex and in any race of people. The behavior is not limited by education, age, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or religion. However, there are some common factors among people who engage in self-injury.” Self-injury most commonly occurs in adolescent females, people who have dealt with a history of physical, emotional or sexual abuse, people who suffer from substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder or eating disorders, individuals who are were discouraged to express their anger and individuals who lack communication skills.

For individuals who suffer from self-injury they hurt themselves to temporarily relieve intense feelings, pressure or anxiety. Self-injury is a way for individuals to control and manage pain. Self-injury can be an indirect way of drawing attention to their pain and suffering, and asking for help.

Some symptoms of self-injury include:

• Visible cuts and burns that are visible and unable to be explained
• Scratching or biting
• Pulling out one’s hair
• Picking at one’s skin
• Eye pressing or head banging

Warning signs of self-injury

• Covering up with long pants and long sleeves in warm weather
• Difficulty expressing feelings
• Low self-esteem
• Lighters, razors, or sharp objects in personal belongings

Self-injury can be a sign of personality disorders, bipolar disorders, major depression, anxiety disorder or schizophrenia. If you know a loved one that is exhibiting signs of self-injury please contact a local counselor so that they can enter a treatment program. There are multiple forms of treatment for people who are self-injurers.

For more information on self-injury and treatment, contact Solace Counseling. We offer a variety of treatment options to help get you or your loved one started on the road to recovery.