Examples of self-harm behavior include1, 3, 6:
- Cutting oneself(such as using a razor blade, knife, or other sharp object to cut the skin)
- Punching oneself or punching things (like a wall)
- Burning oneself with cigarettes, matches, or candles
- Pulling out hair
- Poking objects through body openings
- Breaking bones or causing bruising
Many people engage in self-harm because it gives them a sense of relief. Some people use self-harm to cope with a problem. Some people say that they are trying to stop feeling lonely, angry, or hopeless.1, 3, 6
There is no sure way to prevent someone from self-harm, but reducing the risks by encouraging someone to seek help is beneficial.3
- Psychodynamic therapy: focuses on exploring past experiences and emotions
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: focuses on recognizing negative thought patterns and increasing coping skills
- Dialectical behavioral therapy: can help a person learn positive coping methods