Self-Harming Disorder and Behavior

People often keep self-harming behaviors a secret. They wear clothes to cover their bodies and may be socially withdrawn. However, the urge to self-harm isn’t uncommon and many overcome it with treatment.

Self-injury is often linked to additional conditions that need attention. If you are injuring yourself or have thoughts of self-harm, reaching out for help is the first step. Talking to a doctor or someone you trust can guide you toward the right path for recovery.

Get the support you need today. Banner Health offers compassionate mental health care with a professional team of doctors, nurses, clinical care managers and behavioral health technicians. To begin your journey to recovery, call Banner Health at 1 (800) 254-4357 or (602) 254-4357.

If you or someone you care about is in immediate danger or experiencing severe emotional distress, don’t wait. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, available 24/7 to speak with a trained specialist.

What Is self-harming disorder and behavior?

Self-harm or self-injury is a non-suicidal act where individuals deliberately hurt themselves. Common behaviors include cutting, burning or scratching. While self-harm may provide temporary relief, it often leads to feelings of guilt and shame, making emotions more difficult to cope with.

Though not intended to be life-threatening, self-hard can lead to serious complications such as:

• Intense feelings of guilt or shame
• Low self-esteem
• Infections and scarring
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Worsening of mental health issues
• Serious injury or death

While self-harm may not always be a sign of suicidal intent, it can increase the risk of suicide. Seeking help for self-harm is the first step to learning healthier coping strategies.

Learn more about suicide prevention.

Types of self-harm and common behaviors

Self-harm often occurs in private, and those who engage in it may harm areas of the body like the arms, legs or torso. Although some people self-harm occasionally, the behavior can escalate into a long-term issue.

Examples of self-injury include:

• Cutting with sharp objects
• Scratching
• Burning with matches, cigarettes or heated objects 
• Carving words or symbols into the skin
• Hitting, slapping or punching oneself
• Head banging or hitting a wall
• Piercing the skin with sharp objects
• Pulling out hair 
• Picking at wounds

What causes self-harming disorder and behavior?

There is no single cause of self-harm, but people often engage in these behaviors for the following reasons:

• To signal depression or emotional distress
• To cope with overwhelming psychological pain
• To feel something when numb or emotionally empty
• To regain a sense of control 
• To manage emotions such as loneliness, panic or anger 
• To punish oneself for perceived faults
• To distract from emotional pain

What are the risk factors for self-harming disorder and behavior?

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of self-harm, including:

• Age: Teenagers and young adults are at higher risk due to peer pressure and emotional struggles.
• Friends: Individuals with friends who self-harm may be more likely to engage in it themselves.
• Trauma: A history of abuse, neglect or trauma may increase the risk.
• Identity: People, especially youths, who are questioning their personal identity or sexuality may turn to self-injury to cope.
• Isolation: Feeling socially isolated may make self-harm more likely.
• Traits: People who self-injure are likely to be critical of themselves.
• Mental illness: Disorders like borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders are commonly linked to self-injury.
• Alcohol or drug use: Some patients may cause self-injury while using alcohol or drugs.

Can self-harming disorder and behavior be prevented?

The best way to prevent self-harm is to seek help. Learning healthy coping strategies, forming social connections and discussing difficult emotions can all reduce the urge to self-harm.

What are the signs and symptoms of self-harming disorder and behavior?

Signs that someone may be engaging in self-harm include:

• Always covering up with long sleeves or pants 
• Behavioral instability (mood swings, emotional outbursts)
• Expressions of hopelessness or worthlessness
• Fresh cuts, scratches or bruises
• Unexplained injuries or accidents
• Self-destructive behaviors like playing with sharp objects

How is self-harming disorder and behavior diagnosed?

Self-harm is diagnosed through a comprehensive physical and psychological evaluation. Your doctor will assess suicidal tendencies and address any physical injuries. Additional tests may be needed to understand the root causes of self-injury. If underlying mental health conditions are identified, treatment plans will be adjusted to address them. Banner Health’s team provides a supportive environment to discuss and treat these issues confidentially.

How is self-harming disorder and behavior treated?

At Banner Health, we work with patients and their families to create a personalized treatment plan. Recovery from self-harm is possible with the right support.

Treatment options typically include:

• Psychotherapy (talk therapy): Talking with a therapist can help address the underlying emotional causes of self-harm and teach new coping skills.
• Medication: For those with conditions like depression or anxiety, medications may help manage symptoms.
• Hospitalization or intensive programs: Some individuals may benefit from more structured or supportive environments.

Support for self-harming disorder and behavior

If you or a loved one is struggling, Banner Health offers education, support resources and counseling services to help you navigate recovery. You don't have to face self-harm alone. Our therapists and counselors are here to help you take the next step toward healing.

Call 1 (800) 254-4357 to get started.