Self-harm
If you’re facing a medical emergency from self-harm call an ambulance on Triple Zero (000) or if you can, take the person to the emergency department of the local hospital. While most people who self-harm do not intend to kill themselves, it can sometimes have fatal results.
Self-harm is when someone causes themselves a deliberate harm or injury, often this is ongoing over time. Usually, people who harm themselves are suffering a lot of emotional pain. This can be hard to cope with and understand, for both the person self-harming as well as for those close to them.
Why and how self-harm happens
Some people use self-harm as an emotional outlet, where they try to relieve, control or express pain and confusion. Self-harm is often a secret behaviour, which is performed alone. However, some young people harm themselves when others are present.
Self-harm and young people
Being a teenager can be a confusing time. Although there are many reasons why teenagers harm themselves, each person's story is unique. Self-harm can be a way for a person to:
- cope with emotional pain
- try to manage feelings associated with difficult or confusing changes
- punish themselves
- feel connected to something (even pain)
- try to escape from unwanted thoughts/feelings
- attempt to regain control over their life
- fit in with peers
- rebel against authority.
Managing your emotions
- Talk with someone.
- Do things with your friends.
- Keep a journal.
- Exercise.
- Find opportunities to work creatively.
- Spend time singing, dancing and playing music.
- Learn and practice relaxation techniques.
Depression and anxiety quiz
Complete an online health check to get a better idea if you or someone you know has symptoms of depression.
Time: 5 mins
MoodGYM
The MoodGYM training program helps you to overcome negative emotions and improve your coping skills.
Time: 15 mins
Getting help
Getting help isn't a ‘quick fix’ but it can help you have a healthier and happier life. Feeling guilty, ashamed, angry or ‘out of control’ can make getting help seem scary and pointless. But when you reach out for help, you’ll learn new skills to manage your emotions and negative thinking.
Seeking help can help you:
- deal with stress
- develop skills for challenging self-defeating thoughts
- learn positive relationship skills such as communication, problem solving, conflict resolution, assertiveness and resisting peer pressure
- develop skills to manage difficult relationships
- deal with painful and overwhelming feelings
- reduce or replace self-harming with more positive coping strategies.
It’s important to remember that self-harm is not the only way to deal with emotional pain. There are less destructive ways. If you need someone to talk to about self-harm or anything else, you can always phone Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or use their web counselling or email counselling services.
You might also like to talk to:
- a school or university counsellor, nurse or teacher
- a social worker or psychologist
- your doctor
- a youth worker linked to local council or community centres.
