How to support someone who self-harms By Charlie (Horsefeathers.) We all want what’s best for our loved ones, and it can be difficult when you find out that someone you care about is engaging in self-harm. You may feel scared or confused, and it can be daunting to know where to start when it comes to providing support for them. Take a look at the points below for some ideas on how best to help. Listen non-judgementally. The person you’re aiming to help is likely...
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This article has been labeled as triggering, particularly on the subject of rape or abuse. The contents of this article might therefore not be suitable for certain sensitive users. Please take this into consideration before continuing to read. Sexual self-harm By Cassie (Cassado) Self-harm is anything you do with the intention of harming yourself. Some common forms of self-harm include scratching, cutting, burning, or bruising. Sexual self-harm is just as common, but it is not...
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Is this self-harm? By the Resources Team Many people ask "Is this self-harm?" with regard to something they've been experiencing. Self-harm can be a broad topic, so the following information may help to condense it. The definition of self-harm Self-harm is when you do something with the intent to harm yourself. Self-harm may not always be a conscious choice. For instance, absentmindedly ripping hair out of your head can be considered self-harm, even if you're not ...

Self-harm first aid kit By Cassie (Cassado) Note: This article does not encourage self-harm in any way. It is a resource that makes suggestions on what you can use to help you take care of your body if you do self-harm. The following information is not professional advice and should not be used to replace professional medical attention. Many people struggle with self-harm, but not as many take care of their injuries. People are often scared to seek help, or are unable to seek ...

Self-harm: the road to recovery By Cassie (Cassado) The road to recovery from self-harm is both a challenging and rewarding one. A lot of people struggle with different aspects, such as finding and sticking to alternatives, reaching out for help, and relapse. Recovery from self-harm is something that you have to want for yourself and yourself only. It can be tempting to recover for other people, but you have to be wanting and willing to do this for yourself. It's a lot of work...

Debunking myths of self harm By Jenny (coolkid98) This article describes elements of self harm that may be triggering for some members; therefore, it is encouraged to utilise the Alternatives to Self Harm thread before reading further. There are many myths about self harm and why people self harm. The majority of these views are false and lead to stereotypical views of self harm, which is why it is important to debunk these myths. Some of the myths prevent self harmers from telling...

Discussing self-harm with a loved one By Kyra (Viridian) Self-harm is often a private matter, and letting someone in on something so personal is never easy. Feeling unsure of where to start, even when wanting to tell someone such as a family member, partner or friend is not at all unusual. Many self-harmers are afraid of telling someone for fear of them ‘freaking out’ in the case of a parent, a breakup in the case of a partner, or abandonment if it’s a friend. Here are several steps one may...

Seven steps to be self-harm free By Jordan (MacGuffin) Millions of teenagers today struggle with the issue of self-mutilation, or the intentional self-infliction of bodily injury. According to a recent study published in Reuters, one in twelve teenagers are thought to engage in self-harming behaviors, with girls between the ages of 15 and 24 being at the greatest risk. In addition, people who self-harm pose an increased risk of suicide. According to the study, someone who is treated...

Article featured in Avatar - Volume 4, Issue 2 (August 2010). Loved Ones of those Who Harm By Casey (Casey.) Self harm is a very difficult thing to understand. It is scary to find out that your best friend or sibling is harming themselves. It is even scarier to learn that your child is cutting or otherwise hurting themselves as a way to cope. Most people don't understand exactly what self harm is; those who do may not know how to help. Self harm is just what it sounds like. ...

Article featured in Avatar - Volume 3, Issue 9 (March 2010). Self Injury by Emily (bringontherain) Self injury is intentionally hurting oneself to the point of causing tissue damage or leaving marks for more than a few minutes. About 1% of the population, three million people in the United States alone, have intentionally harmed themselves at some point in their lives. This intentional harm can range anywhere from scratching to limb amputation. The most common forms, especially in...