Self Harm

Self harm is an unhealthy coping mechanism in which an unfortunately large portion of people indulge. It is very common for teenagers and young adults with mental health conditions to engage in self harm, which typically involves cutting or burning oneself. It’s a very dangerous coping mechanism that can lead to permanent consequences. Self harm also only provides a temporary sense of relief and therefore, should be avoided. Enduring life’s challenges and hardships can take a toll, but there are other healthy coping mechanisms that will not result in guilt and shame. If you choose to seek help in preventing self harm habits, your therapist will provide you with other coping options.

What is Self Harm?

Self harm is the act of injuring oneself with non-suicidal intentions, however it can be life-threatening. Those who self harm also are likely to have considered suicide at some point. Self harming is typically a cyclical coping mechanism — a person might impulsively self harm, feel short-term relief, and afterwards experience shame. Those who self harm often go to great lengths to conceal their wounds and scars. Self harm consists of turning emotional pain into physical pain in order to temporarily ignore mental distress. Self harming often coincides with Borderline Personality Disorder, but is a coping mechanism used by those with a variety of mental health issues.

With what mental health conditions is Self Harm typically associated?

– Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
– Depression
– Anxiety
– Bipolar Affective Disorder
– Low self-esteem
– Eating disorders
– Psychosis

What are the symptoms of Self Harm?

– Wounds
– Burns
– Scars
– Bruises

How can therapy help?

It is critical for those self harming to turn to a different coping mechanism due to the fact that it is so dangerous. There are types of mechanisms geared towards eliminating self harm practices, such as rubbing ice on your skin or snapping a rubber band against your wrist. Your therapist will also recommend other methods of coping, such as mindfulness practices, that will provide you with peace of mind.

Bottling up and internalizing your emotions will eventually lead to outbursts, such as self harm. Talking and venting to a therapist will lift some weight off of your shoulders. The alternative coping mechanisms suggested by your therapist will address remaining stress or internal struggles.

Types of therapy offered for Self Harm at The Blue Tree Clinic?

Due to the fact that self harm usually correlates with a mental health condition, such as Depression or Borderline Personality Disorder, your therapist will address both the self harm and the condition in therapy. The types of therapy offered include:

– Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
– Dialectic Behavioural Therapy (DBT)
– Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy
– Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
– Counselling

How can The Blue Tree Clinic help you?

The Blue Tree Clinic’s therapists will help you identify what triggers you into self harming and discuss methods to alleviating the impulse to injure yourself. Being a smaller clinic, we are able to provide you with the individual attention you deserve. We are aware that self harm is often a very personal experience. Our main priorities are your health and confidentiality. Our therapists will suggest a variety of coping mechanisms so that you are able to find one that suits you best. In visiting The Blue Tree Clinic, you will gain short-term solutions to self harming, as well as a confidant who will work with you on solving longterm issues, such as mental health conditions.