Understanding Self-Injury: Causes and Warning Signs
- Yasmin Maghsoudloo
- Sep 27
- 3 min read
Table of Contents
Self-injury is one of the most misunderstood mental health behaviors. Often hidden in secrecy and shame, it affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities. While it’s not always linked to suicidal intent, self-harm is a serious sign of emotional distress and should never be ignored.
Suppose you’re wondering why people engage in self-injury and how to recognize the warning signs. In that case, this guide will provide you with a deeper understanding of the behavior, its underlying causes, and how to support someone on their path to healing.
What Is Self-Injury?
Self-injury (also called self-harm or nonsuicidal self-injury, NSSI) refers to intentionally harming one’s own body without the intent to die. Common forms include:
Cutting
Burning
Scratching or hitting oneself
Biting
Interfering with wound healing
Although self-injury is not always a suicide attempt, it is a strong indicator of emotional pain and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts in the future.
Why Do People Engage in Self-Injury?
At first glance, self-harm can seem confusing or even irrational. But for those who struggle with it, the behavior often serves as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions or experiences.
Common causes and motivations include:
Emotional Regulation
Self-injury may provide temporary relief from intense feelings like anger, sadness, or anxiety.
Expression of Emotional Pain
When words feel inadequate, self-harm becomes a physical way to express inner suffering.
Sense of Control
Some people use self-injury to feel in control when life feels chaotic or overwhelming.
Punishment
Those struggling with guilt, shame, or self-hatred may harm themselves as a form of self-punishment.
Numbness or Dissociation
For individuals who feel emotionally numb, physical pain may serve as a way to “feel something.”
Trauma and Abuse
Many people who self-injure have histories of trauma, neglect, or abuse that contribute to unresolved emotional distress.
Risk Factors for Self-Injury
While anyone can develop self-harming behaviors, certain risk factors increase vulnerability:
History of trauma or abuse
Co-occurring mental health disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, PTSD)
Substance use issues
Difficulty managing emotions
Low self-esteem or perfectionism
Social isolation or lack of support
Warning Signs of Self-Injury
Self-harm is often done in secrecy, but there are warning signs that loved ones can look out for.
Physical Signs
Frequent unexplained cuts, burns, bruises, or scars
Wearing long sleeves or pants even in hot weather
Avoiding activities where skin may be visible (swimming, gym class)
Behavioral and Emotional Signs
Isolation from friends or family
Increased irritability, hopelessness, or self-criticism
Keeping sharp objects or other tools hidden
Talking about feeling “empty,” “numb,” or like a burden
How Self-Injury Affects Mental Health
While self-injury may bring short-term relief, it often worsens emotional struggles over time:
Increases shame and guilt, reinforcing the cycle of self-harm
Creates secrecy and isolation
Delays healthier coping strategies from being learned
Can escalate into more severe self-harming behaviors or suicidal thoughts
Supporting Someone Who Self-Injures
If you suspect a loved one is struggling with self-injury, here are some steps you can take:
Approach with Compassion, Not Judgment
Express concern gently: “I’ve noticed some changes and I care about you. Do you want to talk about it?”
Listen Without Pressure
Allow them to share at their own pace without demanding explanations.
Encourage Professional Help
Suggest therapy, counseling, or support groups that specialize in self-harm recovery.
Offer Alternatives
Share healthy coping strategies like journaling, exercise, mindfulness, or creative outlets.
Know When to Seek Emergency Help
If self-harm becomes life-threatening or they express suicidal thoughts, seek immediate professional intervention.
Treatment Options for Self-Injury
Professional treatment can help individuals replace harmful behaviors with healthier coping skills. Common approaches include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps challenge harmful thought patterns.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Especially effective in teaching emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
Trauma-focused therapy: Addresses underlying causes linked to abuse or past trauma.
Medication: May help with co-occurring disorders like depression or anxiety.
Support groups: Provide community and reduce isolation.
Final Thoughts
Self-injury is not about attention-seeking—it’s a sign of deep emotional pain that deserves compassion, understanding, and professional support.
By learning the causes of self-injury and the warning signs, loved ones can take crucial steps to offer help and encourage healing. With the right care and support, people struggling with self-harm can learn healthier coping strategies and begin to rebuild hope.
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