Self Harm in Teenagers
When some people get overwhelmed by emotions they may turn to self harm or self-injury as an attempt to release painful emotions or to send out a cry for help. People who turn to self-harm usually are not making an attempt to commit suicide, but many times do have that outcome. There is a wide range of ways self harm in teenagers is increasing and various ways to treat the issue as well.
*Suicidal Ideation may occur in people who suffer from depression or anxiety attacks which makes them want an immediate permanent solution to a temporary problem. It’s important you seek medical attention if you notice these feelings.*
Teen Self Harm
When some people get overwhelmed by emotions they may turn to self-harm or self-injury as an attempt to release painful emotions or to send out a cry for help. People who turn to self-harm usually are not making an attempt to commit suicide, but many times do have that outcome. There is a wide range of ways people engage in self-harm and various ways to treat the issue as well.
*Suicidal Ideation may occur in people who suffer from depression or anxiety attacks which makes them want an immediate permanent solution to a temporary problem. It’s important you seek medical attention if you notice these feelings.*
What is Self Harm in Teenagers?
The psychiatric condition known as “self-harm” is formally referred to in the DSM5 under Nonsuicidal Self Injury Disorder (NSSID). This behavior occurs when people perform actions that cause harm to themselves without any intention of taking their lives.
Usually to release painful emotions or as a cry for help, self-harming is any form of hurting oneself on purpose. Self Harmers usually aren’t doing it out of a suicide attempt, but rather because they feel like this will help them cope with their psychological pain through an outlet of physical pain.
People who suffer from anxiety and depression will even often engage in unconscious self-harm, which might present itself as nail-biting or picking at their skin.
Types of Self Harm
Self-harm is anything a person does to cause harm to themselves physically and purposefully. There are many unique ways people engage in this disorder, but some forms of self-harm are more common.
Here are some of the most common types of self-injury:
- Cutting
- Carving words or symbols into their skin
- Preventing wounds from healing
- Pulling out hair
- Burns
- Hitting their heads
- Piercing their skin with sharp objects
Warning Signs of Self-Harm
Mental Health Treatment for Self Harm
Treatment for self-harm can consist of a unique combination of therapy and medication, which all begins with uncovering and treating the root cause of these behaviors. Finding a healthy outlet for the obstacles that feel too overwhelming is a lot easier when you have the support of a professional team that cares.
It can be hard to manage the challenges of life sometimes. Hillside Horizons for Teens can help your child discover a better way to process and cope with their stress.