Self-Injurious Behavior

When a person deliberately engages in a behavior resulting in physical harm to him/herself, but the behavior is not an expression of suicidal intent and is not done in an effort to attain sexual pleasure, the behavior is considered to be a "self-injurious" behavior. Although cutting is the most common form of self-injury (SI), burning and headbanging are also very common. Other forms of SI include biting, skin-picking, hair-pulling, hitting the body with objects, or hitting objects with the body.

Body markings (piercing, tattooing, etc.) that are done for cosmetic preferences are not generally considered SI.

 

In most cases, SI is done as a way of coping with overwhelming and intense emotions. Many people who self-injure are not able to control their emotions well and may find it difficult to identify, express, or release their emotions in a constructive way. As an alternative, they engage in self-injury to relieve their tension and distress.

Research shows that the body releases endorphins when inflicted with physical trauma. For some people, the release of endorphins produces a morphine-like feeling. As a result, some people may self-injure in an effort to produce that morphine-like "high," a behavior that may become addictive.

 

The more you understand about your need to injure yourself, the more likely you are to be able to make good choices and look after yourself. Talking to a friend, relative, or other concerned individual may be helpful, but you should choose carefully who to tell. You should be prepared for a possible emotional, even shocked, reaction from the person you tell. Be sure to ask others for what you need, such as to be listened to and not lectured; to be treated normally; to be distracted or offered companionship; or even to be consoled in some way.

Talking to a counselor is a good way of getting support while you work on stopping your self-injuring behavior. Even if you feel comfortable talking to a relative or a friend, you should also consider working with a counselor.

 

If you know someone who self-injures, it is natural to feel upset, worried, helpless, and even angry about what your friend is doing. Of course, you will want your friend to stop the self-injury, but you cannot force him/her to stop.

However, you can help by trying to understand how the self-injury is beneficial to that person. It may be helpful to understand SI as a way your friend copes with difficulties in life. This can increase your acceptance of his/her need for intervention and help you assist your friend in getting professional help.

Encourage your friend to talk, and listen sympathetically. Offer your friendship and understanding. Remember that you are not responsible for your friend's actions. Do not offer more than you can cope with, and do not try to be this person's sole source of guidance. Seek consultation for yourself at The Citadel Counseling Center if you are concerned about a friend or need support in referring your friend for counseling.

 

Adapted from www.selfinjury.org and information in The Prevention Researcher (Nov. 2000)