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The Basics
What is self-injury?
Self injury is the deliberate, repetitive, impulsive, non-lethal harming of ones self.
An estimated 1% of the U.S. population are self-injurers. Incidence is higher in females than males. Typical onset is at puberty. Behaviors often last 5-10 years, but can last longer.
Background of Self-Injurers
Middle to upper class background . Average to high intelligence. Low self-esteem. Nearly 50% report physical/sexual abuse during childhood. Many report (as high as 90%), that they were discouraged from expressing emotion.
Feelings of emptiness. Over/under stimulation. Inability to express feelings. Loneliness. Not being understood by others. Adult responsibilities. Provides a way to cope. Gives a sense of relief, although this relief is temporary.
Dangers
Could result in more harm than intended. Sense of desperation resulting from the lack of self-control. Could lead to suicide. Eating disorders and substance abuse can intensify the struggle.
Talk with a mental health professional. Pursue treatment. Lots of options exist for treating the issues associated with self injury. If you are involved in selfinjury, seek assistance from a trained health care provider.