Most people experience stress, anger, frustration, and pain at some point in their lives. For many of us, the challenge is in finding healthy ways to express or manage these feelings. For some, self-harm may seem like a solution to relieve these intense emotions, but it can actually cause more harm in the long run.
If you or a loved one is exhibiting self-harm treatment signs, there is self-harm treatment available. Call the staff at Harmony Hills at 855.494.0357 to learn about our specialized self-harm treatment program.
Self-Harm Treatment Signs That Should Not Be Ignored
There are several self-harm treatment signs of being on the lookout for when you suspect someone you know needs self-injury treatment. Be watchful for any of the following:
Repeating Scars Or Patterns On Another Person
If you observe someone with scars in odd areas or without reasonable explanations, there could be cause for concern. People who engage in self-harm generally use repeating, well-controlled movements to cut, scratch, or burn themselves. This causes patches of injuries that may repeat after healing.
Words Or Symbols Carved Into Another Person’s Skin
While random scratches can sometimes be explained away as accidents, symbols and words imply intention. If you notice another person with burns or cuts that appear to take legible shapes, it may be time to seek treatment. Even if the symbol is meaningful to the person, self-harm is generally a warning sign of other issues.
Banging Head Against Objects and Self-Hitting
Self-harm doesn’t always take the form of skin injuries. Sometimes a person may routinely punch themselves or bang their head against walls or other objects. This may manifest in visible bruises or unexplained banging noises when the person is in another room. Even if the injuries are not serious, they can eventually form long-term habits that can be dangerous.
Unpredictable Or Unstable Behavior
A person may demonstrate emotional volatility or unstable behavior. They may also express feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. You may notice that they do not demonstrate appropriate concern for their own safety in other situations. They may have frequent accidents or repeated near-misses.
Unusual Attempts To Cover Skin
Sometimes, it is difficult to notice self-harm because the impacted person is intentionally hiding the injuries. That is why signs of hiding skin in unusual circumstances can be a warning. If a person is wearing long-sleeved shirts or long pants in warm weather, it may hide the injuries. Long hair, dark glasses, and makeup can also hide injuries to the face.
Signs That It Is Time To Seek Treatment for Self-Harm
Some signs you may need mental health treatment for self-injury include:
- Self-injuries that are followed by changes in mood. If you notice a temporary feeling of relaxation or reduced stress after self-injury, it could indicate that the behavior is a coping mechanism. By the same token, feelings of shame following self-harm may lead to a cycle of self-injury. In either case, any emotional changes after self-harm could indicate that it is time to seek treatment.
- Compulsive self-harm behaviors. If you notice yourself thinking about self-harm or feeling a desire to repeat harmful behaviors, it may be time to seek treatment. Even if you can resist the urge, professional treatment can provide better coping mechanisms.
- Increasingly severe or frequent self-injury. If the behaviors become more intense or happen more often, it may be a sign that self-injury has become a harmful coping mechanism.
Harmony Hills Can Help With Our Treatment for Self-Harm
Seeking treatment can help you find healthier outlets for your emotions. Whether you need help for yourself or someone you love, you do not have to walk this path alone. Harmony Hills has the expertise and caring, competent staff to help. Contact us today at 855.494.0357 for a consultation.
