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holding-hands-showing-care-guesthouseSelf-harmĀ is the act of deliberately harming your own body, such as cutting or burning yourself. It is typically not a suicide attempt. For most people, self-harm is a harmful way to cope with emotional pain, intense anger, or frustration. Many emotions can be underneath the act of self-harming. If you or someone you know is going through this, remember you are not alone and reach out for help. If you are experiencing self-harm, you may want to keep the following points in mind.

Response to Trauma

Everyone responds to trauma differently. Self-harm is one way that some people respond to childhood trauma. However, that is not the only background that results in self-harm. People with many different mental health struggles and traumatic situations may participate in self-harm behaviors.

Early childhood memories can be a powerful way to understand your feelings and current mental health better. Sometimes we may not even connect our past to our current state. Those connections are not always clear. Working with a professional can help you better understand those connections.

Talk to Someone

If you are suffering from self-harm, know you are not alone. When we go through traumatic experiences, it is scary, overwhelming, and often isolating. Talking to someone about what you are experiencing is extremely important. Having a support system can help you to get through difficult moments. Surround yourself with people you are comfortable talking to. Someone who is supportive and brings positivity to your life can have many beneficial effects. Maybe that person is a friend or a family member. Or perhaps you will find it more helpful to talk to a professional. Learning what you need to heal is the key to success. We are all different and need different support to work through mental health, addiction, and trauma.

Self-harm is a dangerous coping mechanism that many people participate in after suffering from trauma or mental health struggles. Understanding why you are self-harming is a big step in working through that trauma and beginning to heal. When that trauma is combined with addiction or other mental health challenges, it can feel overwhelming and impossible to work through. Remembering to have a strong support system in place to help you through your journey is important. Here at The Guest House, we are ready to help. Call us today to learn more about our different treatment options and how we can help you at (855) 483-7800.