Self-Harm

What is self-harm? This is when you cause harm or injury to yourself on purpose. Some studies show as many as 10% of adolescents report self-harm. It commonly starts between 12 to 14 year olds but can continue for years. What is considered self-harm? Any type of physical injury you do to yourself intentionally is self-harm. Common types include: Cutting Piercing the skin Burning Punching Biting Poisoning Scratching or rubbing What are the causes of self-harm? Self-harm is commonly related to feeling unhappy and emotionally distressed. The pain from self-harming may make you feel better for a short while. Physical damage occurs to the body. Nerves send signals to the brain. Beta-endorphins are released in the brain. These make you feel better for a short period of time. Feeling better doesn’t last long. Self-harm is repeated to make you feel better.