Self Harm
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More About Self Harm
What is Self Harm
​Self-harm is defined as intentionally damaging or injuring one's body as a way to cope with
emotional distress. It can manifest in various forms, such as cutting, scratching, or burning,
and is often seen as a means to relieve feelings of anxiety, depression, or overwhelming
emotions. Self-Harm is a difficult topic to discuss, but it is becoming more and more common
with teenagers who believe it provides a temporary relief.
Our
Top Tips
- Identify Triggers: Reflect on what situations or emotions lead to self-harm urges. Understanding your triggers can help you develop a plan to cope with them more effectively.
- Use Distraction Techniques: Engage in activities that can divert your attention from the urge to self-harm. This could include: Listening to or creating music, watching a favourite movie or show, going for a walk or exercising, engaging in a hobby or creative outlet, such as drawing or writing.
- Practice Emotional Expression: Find healthier ways to express your feelings. This could involve journaling, talking to a friend, or using art to convey your emotions.
- Physical Activities: If you're feeling angry or restless, consider physical activities like running, dancing, or even punching a pillow. These can help release pent-up energy and emotions.
- Create a Positivity Book: Compile a scrapbook filled with positive memories, quotes, and images that make you happy. This can serve as a reminder of good times when you're feeling low.
- Delay Tactics: When you feel the urge to self-harm, try to delay acting on it. Set a timer for 5-10 minutes and engage in a distraction during that time. Often, the urge will pass.
- Talk to Someone: Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional. Sharing your feelings can provide relief and help you feel less isolated.
- Crisis Support: If you're in immediate distress, consider contacting a crisis hotline or text line for support. Trained counsellors can provide guidance and help you through tough moments.
- Encourage professional help: There are a lot of free helplines, websites as well as your GP who will be able to offer advice and treatment options.
- Don’t judge: Someone will be less likely to ask for help if they feel they’re being judged. Avoid stigmatizing language such as “attention seeker” or selfish. Self-harm is often an outward expression of a much deeper turmoil
- Let them know you’re there for them: you don’t always need to be talking, just visiting them or checking in can be helpful. Remember to ask them how they would like to be supported
- Be patient: Asking them to stop self-harming for you, or for any other reason, can make them feel guilty. Let them seek help in their own time and remember that managing setbacks and relapses are a normal part of managing self-harm.
- Provide safety measures: Ensure they have access to first aid materials and
know how to seek medical help if needed.
How You Can Help Others
What Does The Bible Say?
Biblical take: There are a few examples of self-harm in the bible, none of which are supported or encouraged by God. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 affirms that believers are stewards of their bodies, and self-inflicted harm violates the dignity that God has bestowed on humanity. The human body is portrayed as valuable and holy, intended for the service and worship of God. There are also many verses in the bible that mention emotional pain, a common cause of self harm. Psalm 34:18 tell us that “The Lord is near the broken hearted and saves the crushed in spirit”. This verse is a comfort to anyone struggling with self-harm. It reminds us that God does not stand far off in our pain. He comes close. He sees our tears, understands our heartache, and offers salvation not just for our souls, but for our wounded hearts.
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Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that you see and know all the pain we
experience, and that you care for us more deeply than we can imagine. Help us to process and express our emotions in a healthy way, heal us of the damage we have inflicted on ourselves and grant me peace for my troubled soul. Help me remember that my body is a temple worthy of care and respect. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.