Self-harm is a serious issue that affects many people, including teenagers. In a recent case, a 15-year-old girl in Dubai engaged in self-harm as a way to cope with depression and stress from family and friends. The teenager made superficial cuts on her wrist with a sharp blade to control her feelings. However, after undergoing behavior therapy for emotional regulation and distress tolerance, she showed significant improvement and learned alternative coping strategies. This case highlights the importance of addressing self-harm behaviors early on to prevent further harm.
Non-suicidal self-harm (NSSH) is a deliberate, self-inflicted harm to one’s body without the intention of ending one’s life. It is typically a way for individuals to cope with emotional pain, anger, or frustration. Common forms of self-harm include cutting, burning, scratching, or hitting oneself. Dr. Athira PR, a clinical psychologist, mentioned that self-harm behaviors often begin in early adolescence and can peak during the teenage years. It is essential to provide support and guidance to individuals struggling with self-harm to help them develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Dr. Sobia Nasim, a consultant in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, highlighted the subjective nature of self-harm experiences and the importance of not generalizing them. Many individuals who engage in self-harm describe feelings of self-loathing and helplessness before the act. While self-harm may provide momentary emotional relief, it can have negative long-term effects on mental health. It is crucial to seek help from professionals and develop coping strategies to address the underlying emotional issues.
A global study on self-harm revealed that about 17% of individuals will engage in self-harm during their lifetime. The average age of the first self-harm incident is 13, with cutting being the most common method of self-injury. Despite the high prevalence of self-harm, only a small percentage of individuals seek help from professionals, with many relying on friends for support. Dr. Nasim noted the increasing rates of self-harm among young females in recent years, emphasizing the need for early intervention and support.
Imitation can significantly influence the initiation of NSSI, according to Dr. Michel Daher, a consultant psychiatrist. Adolescents may adopt self-harming behaviors to cope with distress or seek acceptance within their peer groups. It is essential to report severe cases of self-harm to ensure the individual’s safety and well-being. The portrayal of self-harm in media should be handled responsibly to avoid glorification and prevent imitation among vulnerable viewers.
To stop self-harming behaviors, acknowledgment is the first step towards treatment. Seeking help from mental health professionals, developing healthy coping skills, and identifying triggers and emotions are crucial for preventing self-harm. Removing means of self-harm and going to a safe place when feeling overwhelmed can also help individuals manage their urges. Recovery from self-harm is possible with persistence, support, and professional help. It is essential to address underlying emotional issues and develop healthier ways of coping with distress to prevent further harm.
