You are not alone. Help is available 24/7 for individuals struggling with self-injurious or suicidal behavior at The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Dial 988 to connect with someone now.
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 signs of self-harm, know that there is treatment available. Contact Harmony Hills at 855.494.0357 or online to learn about our specialized self-harm treatment program.
Self-Harm Signs That Should Not Be Ignored
There are several self-harm treatment signs to be 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.
Self-injury that is followed by changes in mood, compulsive self-harm behaviors, and increasingly severe or frequent self-injury should never be ignored.
How Treatment Can Help
Treatment for self-harm can provide the critical support and intervention necessary to address the root causes of the behavior. Professional therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), can help individuals identify negative thought patterns and learn healthier ways to cope with emotional pain. Through these approaches, they gain tools to regulate emotions, build resilience, and address underlying issues like depression, anxiety, or trauma. Treatment offers a safe environment where individuals can openly discuss their feelings without judgment, empowering them to replace harmful behaviors with positive, constructive ones.
Additionally, support from a multidisciplinary team, which may include therapists, medical professionals, and social workers, can help individuals establish a sustainable path to recovery. Group therapy or support groups can be incredibly beneficial, as they create a sense of community and show individuals that they are not alone in their struggles. Treatment also often includes family involvement, where loved ones can learn effective ways to provide support and understanding. Over time, with professional help, individuals can discover hope, reclaim their sense of self-worth, and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Harmony Hills Can Help — Contact Us Today
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. Call 855.494.0357, fill out our online form, or send us a chat today to learn about your options.
