Understanding Why People Self-Harm & How to Get Help 

Self-harm is a behavior that is often misunderstood and stigmatized. Contrary to popular belief, self-injury is not a cry for attention, nor is it the same as suicide. Self-harm is a coping mechanism, a way to manage overwhelming emotions, numb pain, or regain control in times of distress. Understanding why people self-harm and how to get help can lessen the stigma and encourage struggling individuals to feel empowered at the act of getting help. At Garden Springs Wellness Center, we understand the struggles that come with self-harm, and we are here to support you on your journey to healing and recovery.

Why People Self-Harm

The reasons behind self-harming behaviors are complex and unique to each individual. However, at the core of self-harm is often a deep-seated emotional pain that a person is unable to express or process in a healthy way. It’s not about wanting to die; it’s about wanting to feel alive or find relief from unbearable emotional suffering or internal conflict. Self-harm can serve as a release valve for intense emotions such as anger, sadness, guilt, shame, or anxiety. The physical pain can momentarily distract from or numb the emotional turmoil.

For some people, self-harm may provide a temporary escape or dissociation from psychological distress. The act of self-injury can create a sense of control over one’s body and emotions when everything else feels chaotic or overwhelming. It can be a way to externalize and objectify the internal pain, to express emotions that are difficult or impossible to put into words.

The cycle of self-harm can be deeply entrenched and self-reinforcing. The temporary relief from self-harm can create a false sense of control, reinforcing the behavior. But after self-harm, there is often guilt, shame, and self-loathing which, in turn, creates more emotional distress and the urge to self-harm.

For others, self-harm is a way to “feel something” when they’re numb, disconnected, or emotionally numb. This can be the case for people who experience depression, dissociation, or trauma-related conditions. Self-harm can be like a “wake-up call” that snaps them out of their emotional numbness.

Underlying mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and borderline personality disorder (BPD) are often associated with higher incidences of self-injury. Self-harm can also be linked to experiences of trauma, neglect, or abuse in childhood or adulthood. For example, survivors of sexual abuse may use self-harm as a way to cope with triggers or to feel in control of their own bodies.

Self-harm treatment focuses on understanding the underlying causes of the behavior, breaking the cycle of self-harm, and learning healthier coping mechanisms for managing difficult emotions and distress.

Common Self-Harm Behaviors

Self-harm can manifest in many different forms, and the most common ones may not be immediately obvious. In addition to cutting, some people may engage in behaviors such as scratching, burning, hitting, or picking at wounds. Excessive exercise, starvation, substance abuse, or other behaviors that cause harm or serve as a form of emotional regulation can also be considered self-harming behaviors.

It’s important to note that common self-harm behaviors are often well-hidden from others. Many individuals who self-harm go to great lengths to conceal their injuries out of fear, shame, or embarrassment. Friends and family members may notice that someone is wearing long sleeves or pants even in hot weather, isolating themselves socially, or exhibiting sudden mood swings or changes in behavior. Signs that someone may be self-harming include feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, self-criticism, or self-loathing, as well as physical signs of injury or neglect.

If you suspect someone is self-harming, it’s important to approach them with care and compassion. Instead of accusing or demanding that they “stop doing it”, try expressing concern and offering support in a gentle and non-judgmental way. Simple statements such as “I care about you, and I’m worried” or “I don’t want you to hurt yourself” can make a big difference. Encourage them to seek professional help and support from a mental health professional who specializes in treating self-harm.

How Therapy for Self-Harm Can Help

Therapy for self-harm is a crucial component of healing and recovery from self-injury. It is important to understand that self-harm is not a character flaw or weakness, but rather a coping mechanism that has become a habit and a cycle. The good news is that with professional help, healing from self-harm is possible.

Therapy helps you identify the root causes of your self-harm behavior and learn new, healthier ways to cope with difficult emotions and stressors. Through therapy, you can learn to replace self-harm with safer, more constructive strategies for emotional processing and self-regulation.

Effective therapy for self-harm often includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps you identify negative thought patterns and challenge them with more balanced, realistic perspectives. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is another evidence-based therapy that has been shown to be particularly effective for self-harm treatment. DBT focuses on building skills such as emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Therapy for self-harm also involves building self-esteem, healthy communication skills, and resilience. Many people who self-harm have difficulty expressing their emotions and needs to others. In therapy, you will learn to identify and express your emotions in healthier ways, and to ask for help when you need it.

Self-harm treatment may also involve treating underlying mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and BPD. This can include a combination of therapy, medication, and holistic wellness practices. Remember that healing from self-harm takes time and patience. It’s important to have a strong support system and to work with a professional who can guide and support you throughout your recovery journey.

Self-Harm Treatment: Comprehensive and Healing-Centered Approach

Self-harm is often a symptom of a larger mental health issue that needs to be treated holistically. This is why Garden Springs Wellness Center provides a self-harm treatment program that is both comprehensive and healing-centered. Our experienced clinicians create individualized treatment plans for our patients that may include a combination of therapy, medication management, and holistic wellness practices.

We understand that healing from self-harm takes time and patience. Our team offers continuous support and encouragement as you learn new ways to cope with difficult emotions and stressors. At Garden Springs Wellness Center, our goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where patients can focus on healing and recovery.

If you are in crisis and in immediate danger of self-harm, we can help. Our team is available 24/7 to provide crisis intervention and stabilization, so you can work on long-term recovery and healing goals in a safe and supportive environment.

Finding Healing and Hope

Healing from self-harm begins with understanding and compassion—for both yourself and others. It is important to recognize that self-harm is not your identity or your definition as a person. Self-harm is a symptom of a deeper emotional pain that can be treated with proper care and support. Recovery from self-harm is possible, and taking the first step towards help can be life-changing.

At Garden Springs Wellness Center, we specialize in providing therapy for self-harm and helping individuals understand their behaviors and heal their emotional wounds. Our caring team offers personalized therapy for self-harm in a safe and supportive environment designed for healing and growth. We can help you understand the underlying causes of your self-harm behavior, break the cycle of self-harm, and develop healthier coping mechanisms for the future.

If you or a loved one is struggling with self-harm, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact Garden Springs Wellness Center today to learn more about our self-harm treatment programs and how we can help you on your journey to recovery. The pain you are feeling right now does not have to be your future. Healing starts with the first step of reaching out, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.