There are countless ways that people deal with pain, trauma, mental illness, and the challenges of life. One way that people, especially adolescents and young adults, try to regain control and find release is through physical self-harm. However, this habit can become cyclical and difficult to manage. But there IS hope, whether it’s you, a family member, or friend who is struggling. March is Self-Harm Awareness Month.
“The definition of Self-harm is physically hurting yourself on purpose,” says Andrew Jackson, Sinnissippi Centers’ Marketing Manager. “The most common form of self-harm is cutting, but it can also include many other methods such as head-banging/hitting, burning, scratching, or pulling hair,” adds Jackson. “It also includes doing things that cause internal damage, such as ingesting poisonous or toxic substances, or consuming too much alcohol or drugs. It’s important to know that this isn’t usually an attempt at suicide but rather a way to deal with emotional distress.”
