Self-harm is a misunderstood, stigmatized behavioral pattern in which people intentionally injure and hurt themselves. Typically, self-harm does not indicate suicidal intent; instead, it is an attempt to cope with overwhelming emotional pain, stress, or trauma.
While the most familiar forms of self-harm include actions like cutting or hair-pulling, substance abuse also constitutes a significant and prevalent form of self-harm.
Common Types of Self-Harm
It may be hard for you to imagine why someone you love might deliberately hurt themselves. Sometimes, people may think they deserve to feel physical pain that mirrors their emotional pain. Self-harm can also constitute a form of control for those who are powerless in challenging circumstances.
Self-injury may become a temporary release for those who struggle with anger, loneliness or self-worth issues. The behavior is typically habit-forming and may take on a ritualistic quality.
- Cutting: Using sharp objects to make cuts on body parts, often the arms, legs, or stomach.
- Burning: Using fire, heated objects, or corrosive chemicals to burn the skin.
- Hair-pulling: People with this impulse control disorder, medically known as trichotillomania, have recurring urges to pull out their hair, leaving bald spots.
- Hitting or punching: Hitting your body or objects to inflict pain or injury.
- Skin-picking: People with dermatillomania excessively scratch or pick at their skin to the point of causing wounds. They may also reopen injuries, preventing them from healing.
Recognizing Substance Abuse as Self-Harm
Substance abuse constitutes self-harm when people continue drinking and taking drugs despite the adverse consequences on their health, relationships and overall quality of life.
- Physical harm: Continued substance abuse can lead to severe physical health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, neurological damage and overdose.
- Emotional consequences: Substance use can exacerbate mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, leading to emotional instability.
- Relationships and social life: Persistent substance abuse typically harms personal and professional relationships, leading to isolation and loneliness.
- Quality of life: The compulsion to drink or use drugs may take precedence over other interests and activities.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
The reasons behind self-harm are complex and varied.
- Coping mechanism: For many, self-harm is a way to handle overwhelming emotions or express complex feelings.
- Sense of control: Self-harm can provide a temporary sense of being in control in situations where you feel powerless.
- Punishment: The cycle of self-harming behavior makes some people feel they “deserve” the pain.
Change Your Life With Client-First Treatment
Addressing self-harm in all its forms, including substance abuse, requires a comprehensive treatment approach that includes psychotherapy, medical attention and appropriate medications. Therapy and mindfulness practices can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms.
At Hope by the Sea, we understand addiction recovery requires addressing the underlying emotional and psychological issues. We have designed our specialized treatment tracks to meet your clinical needs so you can heal and find healthier ways to cope with life’s challenges. Call us today to verify your insurance coverage and learn more about our reputable California drug rehab programs.
