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Self harm
Self harm involves hurting oneself, usually by cutting, but also by such things as burning or hitting oneself.
Some people find that self harm gives them temporary relief from overwhelming feelings. It can either make a person numb to these feelings, or it can be a way for them to express the emotional pain they are experiencing.
Self harm is NOT about getting attention or manipulating people.
Self harm can be understood as a survival strategy, one that people use to cope with unbearable emotional pain and distress.
People who self harm often have very low self-esteem. They suffer not only from harming themselves but also from feelings of shame about their self harming.If you know someone who is self harming, make sure that they know that you care and that it is okay to talk about it. Be respectful and non-judgemental. See the person as a whole person, not just someone who self harms. Be there to support them if they are able to see a GP or if they need to go to the hospital.
