Self Injury

Self injury is physically hurting yourself on purpose, commonly cutting, sometimes burning, picking at cuts or sores, head banging, punching or scratching oneself. Self injury is often mistaken for a failed suicide attempt and though it is indicative of emotional distress, it is generally not intended to be lethal. Even though it may not be apparent, self injury serves a function for your friend; it provides a means of relief from overwhelming pain, fear or anxiety; it’s generally repetitive and can become “addictive” as a means to cope. The self-inflicted pain produces chemical changes in the brain that makes one feel better.

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