Self-harm

Quick Facts

• Self-harm means any behaviour which involves the deliberate causing of pain or injury to oneself — usually as a way of trying to cope with distressing or painful feelings.

• Why do people harm themselves?

  Self-harm is often a response to feelings of extreme psychological distress or emotional pain. It may provide short-term relief from these feelings, but it doesn't allow the person to learn other ways of responding to the challenging emotions. 
  
  While people who self-harm may not intend to end their lives, the consequences of this behaviour can be serious, and it needs careful assessment and care by a health professional.

• How do you get help if you self-harm?

  Self-harm is often a sign that the person needs support. It is very important to see a GP or other health professional for an assessment and diagnosis, and to discuss a treatment plan. Treating the underlying causes will help make a long-term difference to reducing and stopping the impulse to self-harm.
  
  Treatment is likely to involve seeing a psychologist who is an expert in this area, and will know how to best help the person, as well as help them to help themselves.
  
  It’s a good idea to prepare for seeing a doctor by talking to a trusted person about the self-harming behaviour. This might be a family member or friend, or a suitable person at school or work. It’s also helpful to request a longer appointment, so there is time to talk, and take along some simple notes – for example, detailing how long the self-harming has been going on, and any other feelings or events which may be associated with it.
  
  Because self-harming behaviour is risky and possibly life-threatening, do not hesitate to call emergency services on 000 if necessary.

  Related: How to help in a crisis

• Are there alternatives to self-harm?

  It can be hard for people who self-harm to stop it by themselves. That’s why it’s important to talk to someone and see a doctor. It can help to try alternatives to self-harm which can relieve distress in the short term. These include:

  • Delay: for example, put it off until you have spoken to someone
  • Distract: for example, go for walk, play a game
  • Divert: for example, find an activity which has a similar effect to self-harm, but without causing injury, such as punching a pillow, drawing on arm instead of cutting, squeezing an icecube
  • Deep breathing: or other relaxation method

  These are not solutions to self-harm but can be useful as short-term alternatives while receiving treatment, and should be discussed with the treating doctor or psychologist.

• How do I help someone who self-harms?

  People who self-harm may be secretive or feel ashamed about their behaviour. It helps to talk calmly and non-judgmentally about your concerns.

  • Encourage the person to see a doctor or other health professional about the self-harming
  • Suggest options for getting help, rather than directing the person what to do
  • Do not hesitate to call emergency services on 000 if you think the person is at risk of serious injury
  • Remember that you cannot stop someone from self-harming and it is not your responsibility when they do. You can only do your best to encourage them to get help

• Getting support 

  If you need to speak with someone now, contact:

  • Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
  • Lifeline - 13 11 14
  • Suicide Callback Service - 1300 659 467
  • SANE Counselling Services - 1800 18 SANE (7263)

  Call 000 for urgent medical attention or in an emergency.