Understanding self-harm in simple terms
Self-harm, or self-injury, is when someone behaves in a way that intentionally hurts themselves. People who engage in self-harming behaviors might believe that it will help them cope with shame, numbness, or emotional pain.
Why do people engage in self-harming behaviors?
For some, they experience a sense of calm after engaging in self-harm, followed by intense waves of guilt and shame. They may feel like they deserve to be punished. Others may turn to self-harm as a way to regain a sense of control.
Others may think that hurting themselves might release their emotional pain. For some, self-harm is a way to express pain they cannot put into words. This can be especially true if they struggle to understand their emotions or symptoms.
Self-harm is not a cry for attention; it’s a signal of deep emotional distress. Engaging in self-harming behaviors can lead to the worsening of mental health conditions. Those who self-harm are looking for a way to cope with their emotions. But there are many other healthy, effective, and sustainable coping mechanisms to deal with emotional pain.
Let’s look at a few self-harm treatments that may lead to long-term relief.
Why professional treatment matters
Self-harming behaviors can become more frequent or severe over time. Sometimes, self-harming can lead to suicidal ideation. People who engage in self-harm are more at risk of attempting or dying by suicide. If you or someone you love are experiencing suicidal ideation, Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 to talk with a trained professional.
It is important to address the underlying issues that lead to self-harming behaviors. This might include trauma, anxiety, depression, or intense emotions. Psychotherapy can be very effective as a treatment. Clients can learn new coping strategies that reduce shame, help build safety, and foster self-compassion.
6 evidence-based modalities for recovery
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT is used to identify and change negative thought patterns and certain behaviors that might contribute to other mental health conditions. CBT can teach clients how to regulate their emotions and practice healthier behaviors. These healthier thoughts and behaviors can help foster more positive interpersonal relationships.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
This type of therapy focuses on mindfulness and is combined with CBT techniques. DBT can be beneficial for those struggling with intense emotions, self-destructive tendencies, or relationship troubles. This framework teaches clients other strategies for managing stress and regulating emotions.
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
This approach focuses on acceptance, values-based action and thinking flexibly. ACT may improve interpersonal relationships, encourage healthier thought patterns, and build emotional stability.
Trauma-focused therapies
The most commonly used trauma-based therapies are eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and cognitive processing therapy (CPT). These approaches can help clients understand and reprocess their negative thought patterns.
EMDR uses eye movements to reprocess and heal past traumatic events and distressing memories.
CPT targets emotional distress and works to reduce negative thought patterns. This can allow clients to create healthier coping strategies.
Compassion-based therapy
Compassion-based therapies focus on reducing the shame and stigma around mental health disorders. It can help reduce anxiety and self-criticism by replacing them with healthier thinking patterns. This kind of therapy can be effective in reducing self-harming behaviors. It emphasizes self-compassion and kindness toward oneself.
Compassion-based therapies can create a positive relationship with the self. A more positive relationship with the self may improve emotional well-being.
Safety-planning & skills-based group programs
Joining a mental health support group can be very beneficial as a self-harm treatment. In some groups, a professional may recommend creating a safety plan. A self-harm safety plan might contain a list of healthy coping strategies, resources, or trusted individuals to contact (both online and in person).
Lightfully’s integrated approach
At Lightfully, we know that the right self-harm treatment will be different for every person. Our clients are their own person, and should not be reduced to only their mental health condition. The right self-harm treatment will offer understanding and compassionate support, not judgment.
Our clinical experts provide evidence-based, clearly defined, data-driven and whole-person-centered care. They accomplish this by using our original clinical model: Precision Care Model (PCM). Our PCM weaves together DBT, ACT, CBT, and other various compassion-based skills as a framework for our self-harm treatments.
Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.
