Self-harm refers to behaviors that involve intentionally injuring one’s own body, notes Dr. Lorena Reyes Santos, psychiatry specialist at ABC Medical Center.
These injuries can take the form of hitting, scratching, cutting, burning, pinching, or even the misuse of substances or medications. This type of behavior is generally a nonverbal way of expressing emotions.
Here are some signs that may help identify if someone close to you is self-harming:
- Frequently having bruises, cuts, or scars they can’t explain.
- Trying to explain away injuries as accidents or unintentional bumps, for example.
- Wearing clothing that doesn’t match the weather, such as long sleeves on hot days, to cover certain areas of skin.
- Spending a lot of time alone in a room or bathroom, especially after an emotionally stressful situation.
- Having sharp objects or wound-care supplies present in their surroundings.
What Can You Do If You Notice This?
Dr. Reyes notes that once this behavior has been identified, it’s very important to try to understand what’s going on without judgment, people who self-harm often feel guilt or shame, along with significant fear about what others might think of them.
It’s also important to seek an evaluation from a professional who can help identify the underlying cause. This can vary widely and may stem from anxiety, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, addiction, and more. Once a professional has identified the root cause, they can guide the person toward appropriate treatment.
Something important to note, adds Dr. Reyes, is that the severity of self-harm doesn’t necessarily reflect the severity of what’s causing it, meaning a serious depressive disorder might show up as very mild or occasional injuries, while a mild anxiety disorder could result in more severe injuries. Every case is different.
If someone shows one or more of these signs, offer a safe, trusting space and let them know they can talk to you and seek help to express these emotions in a healthier way.
As a final piece of advice, Dr. Reyes urges people not to stay silent, talking about self-harm doesn’t make the problem worse; in fact, it opens the door to addressing it.
At ABC Medical Center’s Neurology Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
