Self-harm is a serious behavior, and it’s often a sign that someone is struggling with depression or another mental health condition. Taking many forms, self-harm often develops as a way to cope with other mental health symptoms. Teens can develop self-harming thoughts and habits from a variety of causes. For some, it can seem like a way to manage mental health issues without letting anyone else know. 

In settings or social circles where mental health is stigmatized, teens can have a harder time seeking help with self-harm behaviors. If you are looking for effective treatment for self-harm, there are two main treatment program types that can potentially benefit you: residential and outpatient. Both have plenty of advantages.

Residential Programs

Residential Treatment Centers provide a supportive environment. During the course of your Residential Program, you will stay on-site. Your treatment plan will involve engagement in various kinds of mental health treatment. Common Residential Program features include group sessions and one-on-one therapy. When addressing self-harm, the extra help provided by Residential Treatment can be beneficial.

• 24/7 supervision — Supervision is a major benefit of Residential Treatment. When it comes to self-harm, constant support can be key to prevention. With frequent check-ins and monitoring, you can get immediate assistance when you need it. This can have a major impact in cases of emergency or moments of distress. If you are concerned that your self-harm is escalating, Residential Treatment can keep you safe and secure.
• Comfortable setting — When you are working to improve your mental health, your external setting can make a huge difference. Being in a comfortable, safe and supportive place can facilitate positive changes. By staying in a place free of distractions and harmful objects, you can work on your mental health in peace.
• Structured routine — Building a routine can have a major impact on your mental health and is important for leading a stable, consistent lifestyle. After following a structured routine during Residential Treatment, the benefits can continue. You can step down to other levels of care such as Partial Hospitalization Programs or Intensive Outpatient Programs. Stepping down to these other levels of care can help self-harmers:

• • Hone their recovery skills in greater freedom
  • Gradually reintegrate into life after treatment
  • Maintain the appropriate level of support for their recovery

Outpatient programs

Outpatient treatment programs can be great for addressing self-harming behaviors and many other mental health symptoms. Unlike Residential Treatment Centers, outpatient programs do not involve clients staying on-site. Instead, you will attend frequent sessions at a clinic. The frequency of your treatment will depend on your condition, needs and goals. Here are some key benefits of outpatient programs:

• Treatment continuity — Have you recently completed a course of treatment at a Residential Center? After Residential Treatment, continuity can be crucial to your long-term success. Continuing your treatment while returning to your daily responsibilities can make the adjustment period smoother. Continuity of support can also help you receive the ongoing support you need to address challenges as they come up.
• Flexibility — Flexibility is a central benefit of outpatient programs. Having a busy schedule should not prevent someone from getting the care they need. If you need a treatment for self-harming that accommodates your scheduling constraints, an outpatient program might be the best option. Outpatient treatment can enable you to attend therapy while going to school and engaging in social activities.
• Everyday implementation — Effective treatment for self-harming takes the real world into account. With top-notch outpatient care, you can work with a licensed clinical therapist to implement solutions that directly affect your everyday thoughts and behaviors. 

Find a range of holistic treatment options for self-harming at Lightfully

At Lightfully Behavioral Health, we understand that each person’s treatment needs are different. That’s why we take an individualized, whole-person approach to mental health care.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.