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Self-Harm
How to help someone facing self-harm:
Teenagers are under a lot of stress. A quick survey may find causes like grades, family expectations, social life, etc. Stress has everything to do with self-harm.
What are the signs that your teenager may be self-harming?
- Scars
- Fresh cuts, or bruises
- Keeping sharp objects on hand
- Wearing long sleeves on hot days
- Difficulties with relationships
- Statements of hopelessness
Why self-harm?
Self-harm like any other coping mechanism, is a way to find relief. When there are pent up emotions, we tend to try to control it.
Although pain is a way to feel alive, and could give temporary relief, it can become a dangerous habit.
Like many different habits it could turn into a loop like this:
- Thoughts: "Life is too overwhelming, I can’t handle it."
- Feelings: anxious, sad
- Behaviour: I’ll cut myself because it feels good now
Unfortunately, the behaviour reinforces the thoughts, and the cycle continues.
Seek help immediately
If self harming or suicidal thoughts are occurring, look for help immediately. You can talk to a trusted individual or call mental health crisis lines for free. In Barrie, call: 1-888-893-8333.
Fortunately, we know that professional help can reduce the frequency and the severity of self-harm. Using techniques like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), therapists can help you identify your thought, feeling, behaviour loop.
They can help you to think better, to feel more in control, and to set goals for reducing any self-harm.