Self-harming is a taboo topic for many, as we do not understand why anybody would want to deliberately cut up their body. Self-harming is a way to cope, something that makes a person feel better about themselves or their situation. It is not a choice; it is a way to cope.
Self-harm (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
In a recent study of over 4000 self-harming adults in hospital, 80% had overdosed and around 15% had cut themselves
About 1 in 10 young people will self-harm at some point
About 3 in 100 people who self-harm over 15 years will actually kill themselves
(The above 3 facts given)
8 Self-harming Myths
Self-Harmers are attention seekers; many self-harmers cut in places that others cannot see, they keep their self-harming very private and do so in secret.
Self-Harmers want to kill themselves; self-harmers cut because it helps them to cope, they are not trying to commit suicide
Only teens self-harm; self-harming can affect any age group, it is not just something teenagers do
Self-Harmers could stop if they wanted; self-harming is addictive and a coping strategy and it is difficult to stop
Self- Harmers cut themselves; yes some do, but there are many other self-harming techniques also. Burning, pinching and biting to hair pulling, starvation and head-butting, are to name a few others.
Self-Harmers do it to fit in; Self-Harming is done as a way to cope with depression, distress or emotional problems. It is something that offers a quick fix to the distress they are feeling.
Self-Harmers are violent to others; Self-harmers harm themselves not others. They are very normal people who deal with their emotions in a difference way to most.
Self-Harmers are psychotic; they are no more psychotic than a woman who buys herself a bar of chocolate to make herself feel better, or having a glass of wine after a hard day at work. Self- harmers hurt themselves to make themselves feel better.
Perhaps next time you think of self-harmers you may think differently and if you don’t then I suggest you stop judging and start learning about something that effects so many.
