Self-Injury
Understanding Self-Injury
Understanding what drives self-injury, how to recognize it, and how compassionate, evidence-based treatment can help.
What Is Self-Injury and Why Does It Happen?
“So why is it then that people self-injure?”
Treatment
Evidence-Based Treatment for Self-Injury
Treatment for those who self-injure includes addressing the function of the behavior and learning alternative coping skills. One treatment that specifically focuses on stopping self-injury and that research has shown to be effective is Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
A research-backed approach specifically designed to stop self-injury by building emotional regulation skills, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.
Until alternative healthy coping strategies have been learned and underlying issues addressed, substitution behaviors can be used when having the urge to harm oneself. These are done by matching an activity to the feeling the person is having — for example, doing something physical when angry, or doing something that creates a strong physical sensation when wanting to feel something.
Physical Activity
Channel anger or tension into movement: running, exercise, or physical work.
Strong Sensations
Use ice cubes, snapping a rubber band, or cold water to redirect the need to feel something.
Emotional Expression
Journal, draw, or call a trusted person to communicate what you're feeling.
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Social withdrawal
- Unexplained injuries or scars
- Unusual secrecy
- Excuses for wounds
- Defensiveness
- Wearing long sleeves or pants in warm weather
- Finding objects used for self-injury in unexpected places
What NOT To Do
- Don't ignore it
- Don't blame yourself
- Don't get angry
- Don't demand answers
- Don't demand that they stop
What TO Do
- Pay attention
- Express concern
- Listen without judgment
- Encourage expression of emotions
- Let them know you are there and want to help them find the help they need