Deliberate self harm is a behaviour that is sometimes elicited by
those who are dealing with difficult or painful feelings or
situations. It is the intentional injury a person inflicts on
themselves, usually in secret, and can involve cutting, burning,
biting, hitting, pulling out hair or scratching their skin.
A person who engages in deliberate self harm may be doing so to
communicate feelings of sadness or to gain a sense of control when
all other things in their lives seem out of their control. Self
harmmay provide a temporary sense of relief but, psychologically,
may be associated with depression, low self esteem or self
hatred, and could result in withdrawal from activities and
isolation from others.
Deliberate self harm is not necessarily a prelude to suicide;
however it is a serious problem which can result in disability or
death regardless of the young person's intention. If a young person
is engaging in deliberate self harm it is important to assess their
risk of serious harm and/or suicide, and to provide the support and
encouragement they need in order to access any medical help they
require.