Self-harm is an unhealthy behavioral pattern that entails deliberate hurting of oneself. It is often described as “without the intention to end life.” This is the reason why it is alternatively referred to as “non-suicidal self-injury” (NSSI). In most cases, it is a way to communicate their inner confusion and turmoil. It can also be an indication of an emotional or behavioral condition.

Hurting oneself can bring about a feeling of momentary relief. Once the pain is gone, however, the feelings of guilt, shame, fear and/or sadness may come back, maybe even stronger with the perceived need “to cover their tracks.” Sadly, self-harming isn’t a behavior that can be easily stopped, especially among young people. The urge can be difficult to control.

There is a real danger for youngsters committing self-harm. Though the difference between self-harm and suicide isn’t clear, it is believed by experts that it can be a precursor to the latter. Thus, even when there could be no intent to endanger life, the risk of committing fatal injuries is always a possibility. This is among the most important reason why you must know how to spot the signs of self-harm.

Spotting the Signs

Self-harm behavior must not be ignored. Children and teens who may have no ideas what’s causing them to hurt themselves deserve early help. Unfortunately, it isn’t easy to spot the signs. Generally, the act is done in private and they will resort to all tactics to conceal the marks and signs of the act or behavior. Spotting the signs is important because prompt and necessary intervention can only be provided if these signs can be recognized, the earlier the better.

What then are the telltale signs that your child is engaging in this behavior? Mayo Clinic shares the signs and symptoms of self-injury:

• Scars
• Fresh cuts, scratches, bruises or other wounds
• Excessive rubbing of an area to create a burn
• Keeping sharp objects on hand
• Wearing long sleeves or long pants, even in hot weather
• Difficulties in interpersonal relationships
• Persistent questions about personal identity, such as “Who am I?” “What am I doing here?”
• Behavioral and emotional instability, impulsivity and unpredictability
• Statements of helplessness, hopelessness or worthlessness

The Different Forms of Self-harm

There are many forms of self-harm. The most common is cutting. According to Mental Health America, 70 to 90 percent of those who self-injure cut their skin. “Head banging or hitting” comes second at 21 to 44 percent. The third is “burning” at 15 to 35 percent.  “Other forms of self-injury include excessive scratching to the point of drawing blood, punching self or objects, infecting oneself, inserting objects into body openings, drinking something harmful (like bleach or detergent), and breaking bones purposefully.”  It is important to note that self-harm behavior can result in very serious health consequences – sometimes permanent.

 People who self-injure may hurt themselves in varied ways. They can cut. pull their hair and bang their heads. The body parts that they are likely to hurt most of the time are their torso, legs and arms. Excessive body piercing and tattooing may also be considered other forms of self-harm.

Though it is generally done in secrecy, there are rare cases when the youngsters would engage in self-harm with others or do it in public. Experts believe that such behavior could be a way of showing their bravery or that they experienced pain. For those who have poor self-esteem, self-harm could be a way to gain respect or acceptance from their peers. The behavior can be persistent

Risks and Complications

The rate of self-harm is particularly high among teenagers and young adults. It usually starts during adolescence, or even earlier during puberty – a time when their emotions are volatile and they are exposed to milestone changes, challenges and increasing peer pressure. Studies show that about 15 percent teens are engaged in self-injury and that the number is growing in young people aged 15 to 24.

Teens are especially vulnerable when they have self-harming friends or peers, and when they have major life issues or have been exposed to traumatic life events. They can also be more at risk when they have an unhappy or an unsupportive home environment, an introverted personality. Teens who are affected with an emotional or behavioral condition/issue – anxiety, depression, eating disorders, low self-esteem, etc. –   are also susceptible to NSSI. Abusing a substance – alcohol and/or drugs – can similarly increase their risk.

Self-injury can only offer temporary release of negative feelings. Once the pain is gone, a variety of complications can set in, including:

• Intensified feelings of guilt, shame, and low self-esteem
• Worsening infections of cuts/wounds or arising medical conditions from sharing cutting tools
• Disfigurement and/or lasting scars
• Possible lethal injury
• Complication of causal disorders/issues
• Increased risk for suicide

The “Addictive” Nature of Self Harm

NSSI could become a habit that’s not easy to break. This is because the brain releases a chemical or neurotransmitter that functions in compensating for the pain – this is called dopamine It works like a diversion from the pain, enticing teens to perform the act when they have negative thoughts or emotions. The release of dopamine can give them some sort of “high,” a reason why it is regarded by some as “addictive.”

The use of the term “addictive or addiction” is being debated by experts. It is based then on the fact that the behavior could become difficult to control. Thus, it could become a continuing pattern or ritual, even when the self-harmer knows it has negative and even serious consequences. There are, however, experts who prefer not to view it as such because it isn’t caused by external or unnatural chemicals. It is further argued that “psychological addiction” to a natural biochemical is a normal response to everyday triggers and that it can be managed without the use of medications. In addition, the use of the term “addictive” brings a negative connotation that can worsen the feelings of a person who self-harms.

The Helpline in North Carolina

Self-harm isn’t a simple issue as it is sometimes pictured in the popular media. It is seldom committed to punish oneself or to get attention.  Teens who are into self-harm could be injuring themselves because they engulfed by dark emotions they don’t understand or believe there is no way out from. As a parent, you must be able to communicate that self-harm is futile because it isn’t really resolving their issues and that it isn’t a hopeless case.

Calmly taking control of the situation is important and professional help is critical. If you are having a difficulty connecting with your child or communicating your love and support, seek out help. You need not feel alone with your concerns. In North Carolina, you can find the help your child needs from Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC.

Take note that NSSI could be a symptom of a bigger emotional issue. It isn’t something that you must trivialize or ignore, and seeking help isn’t something that you must delay. Self-injury can bring about serious repercussions – it is best to address it with urgency now. Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC, is here to assist you and your child.

Related Articles:

• Adolescent Self-Harming Behavior: What Parents Can Do About It
• Self-Harm: Reading the Masked Signs