Our focus for September will be on the dark & difficult subject of self-harm. Self Harm is usually a coping technique that people use when struggling to deal with emotional or psychological distress. Those affected often find it easier to cope with physical pain than the emotional or psychological pain they otherwise endure.
Rates of self-harm in Ireland & the UK are on the increase. Specific figures for it’s prevalence in the general population are difficult to attain, mainly because it is often carried out in private & usually goes unnoticed & unreported. Figures collected typically represent only those cases where a person has presented for medical treatment as a result of self-harm but crucially, estimates suggest that around only 10% of self-harmers ever present at a hospital for help with their self-inflicted injuries. However, it is clear that the numbers of people reporting for help with self-harm injuries are on the increase. Pieta House have reported a 23% increase in the numbers of people contacting them for help with self harming behaviour since 2017, and there are worrying reports that suggest that as many as 13% of children between the age of 10 & 16 have self-harmed – This figure is rising. Estimates put it’s prevalence in wider society at around 6% of the population. It is more prevalent in young females than in young males.
So what is Self-Harm and what are the warning signs to look out for?
What is Self-Harm?
Self-Harm can be defined as any behaviour acted-out with the intention of physically harming yourself in some way. Common examples might include, but are not limited to:
- Cutting
- Scratching
- Burning
- Hitting
- Substance abuse, including drugs (Illegal & legal) & alcohol, among others.
- Over-exercising
- Dysfunctional eating & drinking habits
- Consumption of toxic materials
- Suicidal ideation, planning and acting out
- Pulling out hair or eye lashes
- Dangerous sexual practices
…. The list is potentially endless and we must remain open-minded about different forms of self-harm in order to identify it & act accordingly.
So what are the warning signs?
Spotting self-harm in others can be difficult. Self-Harmers often injure themselves in areas that aren’t often visible to others, for example on the torso or upper thighs; And where injuries are to more visible areas like the lower arm, long sleeves maybe worn to conceal the injuries.
- Unexplained or unlikely explanations for wounds or signs of previous wounds
- Covering up – Self-harmers often wear clothing or try to conceal their wounds in some way
- Hair loss
- Substance abuse
- Self-loathing & a desire to harm oneself
- Expressing or feeling a desire to end ones life or not go on
- Becoming withdrawn and not wanting to engage with others
- Changes in eating habits, including secretive eating
- Unusual changes in weight &/or, shape
- Low self-esteem – Feeling like you are not good enough, undeserving of love & care – perhaps of life itself; Or feeling like you are to blame for all your problems
- Feeling depressed, including persistent low mood, a lack of motivation or interest in things, generally.
It is estimated that between 50% & 80% of people who have attempted suicide have self-harmed in some other way within the year preceding their suicide attempt. This doesn’t mean that most people who self-harm will go on to attempt suicide but it does highlight the gravity of what can happen if self-harm goes on untreated. It is also worth noting that death can result of self-harming behaviours even if death wasn’t the intended outcome.
If you recognise these signs in yourself or someone you know, it’s time to consider getting some professional help. Always remain aware of potential needs for medical assistance. If you or someone you know is suicidal then do not hesitate to contact the emergency services as soon as possible.
If you would like to talk about self-harm, whether it be for yourself or someone you know feel free to contact BroadMinds Therapy for help & advice. Call (+353) 0899420568, email help@broadmindstherapy.org , message us via this website, or visit our facebook page http://www.facebook,com/jpbroad for more information.
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Thanks for taking the time to read this article.
Integrative Counselling And Psychotherapy 