March is Self-Harm Awareness Month: Understanding, Supporting, and Healing

Self-harm is a difficult and often misunderstood topic, yet it affects millions of people worldwide. March is Self-Harm Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the reality of self-injury, challenge misconceptions, and promote pathways to healing. Whether you or someone you love has struggled with self-harm, understanding the causes, signs, and support options can make a significant difference. In this article, we'll explore what self-harm is, why people engage in it, how to offer support, and the steps toward recovery.

What is Self-Harm?

Self-harm, also known as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), refers to the deliberate act of injuring oneself without suicidal intent. It can take many forms, including:

• Cutting
• Burning
• Hitting or bruising oneself
• Pulling out hair (trichotillomania)
• Interfering with wound healing

While self-harm is not always a suicide attempt, it can be a warning sign of deep emotional distress. Many who engage in self-harm do so as a coping mechanism for overwhelming emotions, such as sadness, anger, anxiety, or numbness. The physical pain can serve as a temporary release or distraction from emotional pain.

Why Do People Engage in Self-Harm?

There is no single reason why people self-harm. It is often a complex and personal experience influenced by emotional, psychological, and environmental factors. Some common reasons include:

• Emotional Regulation – Some individuals struggle to manage intense emotions, and self-harm becomes a way to cope.
• A Sense of Control – When life feels chaotic or unpredictable, self-injury may provide a sense of control.
• Expressing Pain – Those who have difficulty verbalizing their emotions may use self-harm as a way to externalize their inner struggles.
• Feeling Something – Some people who feel emotionally numb or detached use self-harm to experience sensation.
• Punishing Oneself – Individuals struggling with low self-esteem or guilt may harm themselves as a form of self-punishment.

Common Misconceptions About Self-Harm

Despite growing awareness, many myths still surround self-harm. Here are some of the most common misconceptions:

"People who self-harm just want attention."

Truth: Self-harm is not about seeking attention; it is often a deeply private act used to cope with distress.

"Only teenagers self-harm."

Truth: While self-harm is common among adolescents, people of all ages can engage in self-injury.

"If someone self-harms, they must be suicidal."

Truth: While self-harm can be a risk factor for suicidal thoughts, many individuals who self-injure do not want to die.

"People who self-harm can just stop if they want to."

Truth: Self-harm can become a compulsive behavior, and quitting often requires professional support and healthier coping mechanisms.

Recognizing the Signs of Self-Harm

Identifying self-harm in a loved one can be challenging, as many people go to great lengths to hide their injuries. Some warning signs include:

• Unexplained cuts, burns, or bruises, especially on the wrists, arms, thighs, or stomach
• Wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather
• Keeping sharp objects, lighters, or razors in personal spaces
• Frequent reports of "accidents" or clumsiness
• Sudden withdrawal from social activities or changes in mood
• Low self-esteem, excessive guilt, or expressions of hopelessness

If you suspect someone you love is engaging in self-harm, approach the situation with compassion rather than judgment.

How to Support Someone Who Self-Harms

If a friend, family member, or partner is struggling with self-harm, your support can be invaluable. Here's how to help:

• Remain Calm and Non-Judgmental – Reacting with anger, fear, or shock may make the person feel more ashamed and withdrawn.
• Encourage Open Conversations – Let them know they can talk to you without fear of judgment.
• Avoid Ultimatums – Threatening or forcing someone to stop self-harming does not address the underlying issue and may worsen their distress.
• Help Them Find Alternative Coping Strategies – Suggest healthier ways to manage emotions, such as journaling, art, deep breathing, or exercise.
• Encourage Professional Support – Therapy and counseling can be crucial in helping individuals find long-term healing.

Steps Toward Recovery and Healing

Overcoming self-harm is a journey that requires patience, self-compassion, and professional guidance. Here are key steps toward recovery:

1. Seeking Professional Help

Therapy is one of the most effective ways to address self-harm. A mental health professional can help identify triggers, develop healthier coping strategies, and address underlying emotional pain. Some effective therapeutic approaches include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps individuals reframe negative thoughts and develop better emotional regulation.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
• Group Therapy and Support Groups – Connecting with others who understand the struggle can be incredibly validating and helpful.

2. Building Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Finding alternative ways to cope with emotional pain can reduce the urge to self-harm. Some helpful strategies include:

• Expressing emotions through writing, painting, or music
• Engaging in physical activities such as running, yoga, or dance
• Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques
• Reaching out to trusted friends and family when feeling overwhelmed

3. Creating a Safety Plan

A safety plan helps individuals recognize triggers and create a step-by-step guide to managing distress. A safety plan might include:

• Identifying personal triggers
• Listing healthy coping mechanisms
• Writing down supportive contacts to reach out to
• Removing harmful objects from immediate access

Breaking the Stigma and Raising Awareness

Self-harm remains a stigmatized issue, often preventing individuals from seeking help. Raising awareness and fostering open conversations can help break the cycle of shame and secrecy. Ways to contribute include:

• Sharing educational resources
• Supporting mental health initiatives and organizations
• Advocating for better mental health care access
• Encouraging conversations about self-harm in schools, workplaces, and communities

BrightChoice: Supporting Your Journey

Whether you're seeking support for yourself or a loved one, BrightChoice is here to help. Our licensed therapists specialize in trauma, self-harm, and recovery, providing compassionate care when you need it most. Reach out today to learn more.