Trigger Warning: This blog post discusses self-harm, self-injury, and mental health challenges, which may be distressing for some readers. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or Text 988 – 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, confidential support). You are not alone and support is here when you need it.
The first day in March not only marks the beginning of a new month, but a time to observe Self-Injury Awareness Day (SIAD). This day provides a crucial opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stigmas, and offer support to those who struggle with self-harm. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we are committed to helping youth navigate their mental health challenges through education, intervention, and compassionate care.
What is Self-Injury?
Self-harm involves intentionally causing physical harm to yourself as a way to cope with emotional pain, stress, or distressing thoughts. It is also known as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and is a serious mental health concern that requires both understanding and support.
Myths and Stigmas Surrounding Self-Injury
There are many misconceptions when it comes to self-injury which can create feelings of shame or isolation for those who battle with it. This Self-Injury Awareness Day, we aim to shed light on some common myths surrounding self-harm and the truth behind them:
- Myth: Only teenagers engage in self-harm.
- Truth: While self-injury is more common in adolescents, people of all ages can struggle with it.
- Myth: Self-harm is the same as a suicide attempt.
- Truth: Self-injury is often used as a coping mechanism rather than a suicide attempt, but it does increase the risk of suicide if left unaddressed.
- Myth: If someone self-harms, they must have a severe mental illness.
- Truth: While self-harm can be associated with conditions like depression, anxiety, or trauma, not everyone who engages in it has a mental health diagnosis.
Recognizing the Signs
Identifying the signs of self-harm early can help a loved one get the support and professional help they need. Some of these early warning signs include:
- Unexplained cuts, burns, or bruises on the wrists, arms, thighs, or stomach
- Wearing long sleeves or pants even if it’s hot outside
- Frequent “accidental” injuries or unexplainable wounds
- Bloodstains on clothing, towels, or bedding
- Finding sharp objects like razors, glass, bottle caps hidden in personal spaces
- Withdrawing from friends and family, mood swings, or increased secrecy
How You Can Help
If you suspect a friend, family member, or student is dealing with self-harm, here are some ways you can support them:
- Always Remain Compassionate: Avoid judgment or panic. Always approach conversations around this topic with compassion and care.
- Highly Encourage Professional Help: Self-harm can uncover underlying emotional pain that requires professional help. At WYS, we offer self-harm crisis intervention and mental health programs primarily focusing on youth.
- Suggest Different Coping Techniques: Promote healthier coping techniques, such as:
- Journaling or creative expression
- Exercise or deep breathing
- Talking to a trusted adult or counselor
Resources for Those Struggling with Self-Harm
At Western Youth Services, we provide mental health services that can help youth manage emotions in healthier ways:
- Crisis Intervention Services – Immediate support for those in distress
- School-Based Mental Health Programs – Accessible therapy within schools
- Individual and Family Counseling – Personalized strategies for healing and resilience
- Community Workshops and Education – Helping parents, teachers, and caregivers recognize and address self-harm
Self-Injury Awareness Day is about breaking stigmas and making sure that no one feels alone in their struggles. Research shows that early intervention and emotional support can help to significantly reduce self-harming behaviors. If you or someone you know is struggling, keep in mind that help is available and healing is always possible.
For more information on our variety of tailored programs, visit Western Youth Services.
If your child or a young loved one is struggling with a mental health concern, we encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional or to contact an Access Coordinator at Western Youth Services by sending an email to [email protected] or by calling us toll-free at 888-312-0406.
Orange County, State and National resources can be found on our site here: https://www.westernyouthservices.org/resources/.
