Self-harm is not a mental illness on its own, as many may think, but can be a symptom of deeper underlying issues. Among the many challenges faced by young people today, self-injury – such as deliberate cutting, cigarette burning, or other forms of repetitive self-mutilation – stands out as particularly perplexing. While it’s unclear whether this behaviour is a sudden epidemic or has been gradually increasing, its occurrence is undeniably on the rise.
“Self-harm is the deliberate injury to oneself.”
Self-harm as a Coping Mechanism
It often starts in adolescence, especially in repressive homes where negative emotions are ignored. Many who self-harm learned early on that their feelings were “bad” or “wrong.” They may lack role models for healthy emotional expression. Physical pain from self-harm temporarily numbs emotional pain.
Self-harm vs. Suicidal Behaviour
Self-harm is often mistaken for suicidal behaviour, but they are distinct. Suicide aims to end life and pain, while self-harm seeks relief from emotional distress. Self-harmers cope with pain rather than escape it. However, it can accidentally lead to death.
Self-harm as an Addiction
Self-harm releases endorphins, painkillers that create relaxed feelings. This chemical change in the brain can make this act addictive, leading to dangerous behaviour.
Self-harm and Mental Illness
Hurting oneself is a symptom, not a mental illness. It can accompany bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, OCD, or PTSD. A psychologist should be the first step in treatment. Therapy helps recognise triggers and develop healthier coping strategies. Relaxation techniques, coping mechanisms, and medication can reduce anxiety and impulsive responses.
Recent Trends in Self-harm
A finding in recent research reported that over one-third of college students with major depression had a history of non-suicidal self-injury. A further study noted a rise in self-inflicted injuries among adolescents during the pandemic, with younger average ages and longer disorder durations. Factors like excessive mobile phone use, stressful learning situations, and poor parent relationships were linked to increased self-injury behaviours.
Indicators and Symptoms of Self-harm
You should be on the alert for these signs:
- Unexplained injuries, especially linear cuts on the forearm, upper arm, or legs. Words cut into the skin, like “fat,” “stupid,” or “loser,” may indicate specific issues.
- Covering up to hide injuries, even in hot weather.
- Mood changes, such as depression, anxiety, out-of-control behaviour, relationship changes, or school performance issues.
- Behavioural changes, like withdrawal, eating habit changes or secretive eating, and unusual weight changes.
- Low self-esteem, self-loathing, and self-punishment tendencies. Signs include self-blame and feeling unworthy.
Are you interested in finding out more about human behaviour and the way the mind works? Do you have a desire to enter the caring profession? If so, why not consider studying counselling at SACAP (The South African College of Applied Psychology)? SACAP offers a range of vocational, academic and professional counselling courses aimed at everyone from qualifying graduates to mature students. For more information, enquire now.
