This month has been dedicated to the awareness of self-harm so it shall be discussed more thoroughly. Harming oneself is something that is typically done in private. This is a sign that they are under immense emotional pain. This is a sign that they need extra support from loved ones. There are some signs of this and reasons for this to come to light.
Reasons for Self-harm
When a person is doing this, it is because:
- They are trying to express their feelings in an external way
- To punish themselves for any perceived faults due to being angry, frustrated or disappointed in themselves
- They are attempting to manage or reduce severe distress
- To Communicate to others that they are in distress
- To help them relieve negative feelings
- To prove that they can tolerate pain
Potential Forms of Self-harm.
People can harm themselves in multiple ways. Cutting is a common form of self-harm and affliction that causes obvious concern. A person would use a knife, a key or some scissors to most likely cut their skin on their arm, thigh, wrist their abdomen. I can only imagine the damage this would cause. So, if you know anyone experiencing intense emotions, especially if they’re suspiciously carrying a knife, you should keep a look out.
There is also the possibility of burning. If they have or can get access to matches or cigarettes, they could create harmful marks on their body. The most likely areas of the body have already been stated. I warn you to keep your eyes peeled for anyone who may have matches and shouldn’t. Fire is a source of energy and danger and that no one should handle lightly.
Another possibility is self-hitting or head banging against the wall. This is something I’m guilty of myself due to frustration or being mad at myself. It only causes extra pain and potentially even worse for brain cells. To release frustration like this, I would recommend hitting or banging your head against a pillow. It’s less painful and you can squeeze it to get out any pent-up energy.
Any person that you know that is abusing their body then you or someone you know should talk to them about what they are feeling. However, possible they need to learn new coping skills and mechanisms to help them manage their emotions. When they’re ready, they need to start counseling so they can unravel everything they’re feeling. Most of all this person needs to feel loved, which should slowly help calm their nerves.
We cannot underplay the seriousness of this issue. In this world, we need to take care of each o In this world, we need to take care of each other now more than ever. Many personal types of issues have the right to be addressed. So now, if you or anyone you know happens to notice concerning marks on their body be ready to proceed with caution when approaching the subject.
“March Is Self-Harm Awareness Month.” St. Luke’s Penn Foundation, www.pennfoundation.org/march-is-self-harm-awareness-month/.
Cleveland Clinic. (2023, May 9). What is self-harm? Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12201-self-harm