Self-Harm and hope
Self-harm is more common than many people realize. Unfortunately, I know this firsthand because it is something I struggle with myself.
According to the Mayo Clinic, self-injury—often called nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI)—is the act of intentionally harming your own body, such as through cutting or burning. It is typically not a suicide attempt. Instead, it is often used as a way to cope with overwhelming emotional pain, sadness, anger, stress, or other difficult feelings.
While self-harm may provide a temporary sense of relief or release, that relief is usually short-lived. Feelings of guilt, shame, and emotional distress often return, creating a painful cycle that can be difficult to break. Although most people who self-harm do not intend to cause life-threatening injuries, the behavior can still result in serious harm.
Self-harm affects people from all walks of life, but certain groups experience higher rates than others:
Adults: About 5% of adults report having engaged in self-harm at some point in their lives.
Teenagers: Adolescents have the highest rates of self-injury, with approximately 17% reporting that they have self-harmed at least once.
College Students: Studies suggest that around 15% of college students have engaged in self-harming behaviors.
Women and Men: Women are generally more likely to report self-harm, but men may account for at least 35% of all cases. Experts believe self-harm among men is often underreported.
Sexual Minorities: Individuals who identify as gay, lesbian, or bisexual are at increased risk. Some studies have found especially high rates among bisexual women.
These statistics remind us that self-harm is not rare, and many people are struggling silently.
So, what can you do if you or someone you care about is struggling with self-harm?
The good news is that help is available. Recovery is possible, and there are many resources, treatments, and support systems that can help people learn healthier ways to cope with emotional pain. In the next section, I'll share some of the resources and strategies that have helped me and others on the journey toward healing.
Supporting a Partner Who Self-Harms | Nicole Arzt Medium.com
Self-Harm - Causes, Warning Signs, and Symptoms | Health Direct (AU)
Someone I Care About is Harming Themselves | Mental Health America
Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a live volunteer Crisis Counselor | Crisis Text Line