FAQ | self-injury-sos

Frequently Asked Questions

Self-injury is a global issue that does not get the attention that it deserves in both the media and public education. We are here to answer frequent question that might be facing you as a victim or loved one. If you wish to add any more questions to this forum, please email/contact us at NHSteamSOS@gmail.com.

01

What is self injury?

Self-injury, also known as cutting or self-mutilation, occurs when someone intentionally and repeatedly harms herself/himself. The method most often used is cutting but other common behaviors include burning, punching, and drinking something harmful, like bleach or detergent. (Mental Health America) Self-injury is the intention of hurting yourself in order to feel pain, not with the intention of killing yourself, which is one of the many misconseptions about self-harm.

02

Why do people self injure?

Self-injury is a very serious situation, and should never be ignored or set aside. Often, people say they hurt themselves to express emotional pain or feelings they can’t put into words, or it serves as a way to have control over your body when you can’t control anything else in your life. Victims of self-mutiliation must understand that this is not the right way to handle their emotions, or frustration at the lack of control in their lives, and anyone has the power to help.

03

How can I help someone who self injures?

It's extremely difficult to watch a loved one hurt themselves, but you can help and take action. First, if they need immediate help, take them to a hosptital or therapy if their condition is bad. Help them to identify the triggers so that they can be reduced or removed from the victims live. Help them develop coping habits like listening to music, writing or exercise. that they can replace instead of hurting themselves. Teach them how to handle their emotions, how to identify what they are feeling and a way to express it. All these things can give the person the support and push they need to end their self-mutilation, and to start a new life free of self-harm.

04

How can I help myself?

First of all, know that you are not alone in this issue, and that you can overcome self injury to have a happy life free of pain. The first step you can do is to find friends, family or trusted adults that will aid you on your road to the SI-free you. Flush any abuse tool, and know that you are fighting for yourself, that you are worth fighting for. Although it may be hard, do not fight the people trying to help you, go to therapy or the hospital although it might seem terrifying, it might save your life. Lastly, pace yourself with recovery, develop coping habits that make you feel happy and safe Keep working improving every day until you are free of self-injury, and free to live your life again.

05

What are some resources I can always have access to for help?

There are several resources that are accesable for the patient, parent, or friend. If you look to our "INFO" page, you'll find hotlines and online resources that can help you or a loved one on the road to a life without self-harm. You can also research local therapist or aid clinics that provide a more personalized and "face to face" experience, if that is of better help to you. There will always be means of support, because we never want anyone to feel alone when facing the battle of self-injury.

06

What are the warning signs?

If you are questioning if a loved one is self-harming, it might not always be the best idea to directly confront them about it. If they exibit one or more of the following warning signs, consider contacting a trusted adult or perferssional:

- Unexplained wounds or scars from cuts, bruises, or burns, usually on the wrists, arms, thighs, or chest.

- Blood stains on clothing, towels, or bedding; blood-soaked tissues.

- Sharp objects or cutting instruments, such as razors, knives, needles, or glass shards in the person’s belongings.

- Frequent “accidents.” Someone who self-harms may claim "clumsy" or have many mishaps, in order to explain injuries.

- Covering up. A person who self-injures may insist on wearing long sleeves or long pants, even in hot weather.

- Needing to be alone for long periods of time, especially in the bedroom or bathroom.

- Isolation and irritability

07

What do I do if a loved one refuses to seek help or admit to self-harming?

It can be extremely difficult to watch someone injure themselves, and refuse your help. Do not give up, but do not continue to push for you may just cause them to further harm themself. If they refuse to help themselves, seek help from a higher organization; a trusted adult, a hotline, a school/work therapist or a proffesionalt. You may fear that you will damage your relationship with the victim, but it is worth saving them from a future life of pain.

08

How can I discover my triggers and act on it?

If you cut to express pain and intense emotions:

- Paint, draw, or scribble on a big piece of paper with red ink or paint

- Express your feelings in a journal

- Compose a poem or song to say what you feel

- Write down any negative feelings and then rip the paper up

- Listen to music that expresses what you’re feeling

If you cut to calm and soothe yourself:

- Take a bath or hot shower

- Pet or cuddle with a dog or cat

- Wrap yourself in a warm blanket

- Massage your neck, hands, and feet

- Listen to calming music

If you cut to release tension or vent anger:

- Exercise vigorously—run, dance, jump rope, or hit a punching bag

- Punch a cushion or mattress or scream into your pillow

- Squeeze a stress ball or squish Play-Doh or clay

- Rip something up (sheets of paper, a magazine)

- Make some noise (play an instrument, bang on pots and pans)

If you cut because you feel disconnected and numb:

- Call a friend (you don’t have to talk about self-harm)

- Take a cold shower

- Hold an ice cube in the crook of your arm or leg

- Chew something with a very strong taste, like chili peppers, peppermint, or a grapefruit peel.

- Go online to a self-help website, chat room, or message board