Mental health issues can affect and influence the lives of people in an array of ways. This blog deals with self-harm and how it’s not just physical. I delve into how individuals can inflict harm on themselves, even if it’s not in the physical sense, and explore possible avenues of dealing with it.
What is self-harm?
Self-harm, also known as self-mutilation, refers to the act of inflicting pain or causing harm to your own body. It’s usually more common amongst young people. Although it has been found that people who normally self-harm are suicidal or have suicidal thoughts, it is not always the case. Some people who inflict self-harm are sometimes just looking for a way to express the “inner pain or conflict” they are experiencing.
There are different types of self-harm and we explain them in my blog about Self-Harm In Teens.To better understand what I am about to speak about, it would be helpful to read the article.
8 Types of Self-Harm That Aren’t Physical
There are forms of self-mutilation that aren’t physical. Yes, they also deal with pain infliction but this pain also speaks to feelings of unworthiness, guilt, blame, self-loath, etc. This can usually be identified by the negative way people speak, act, and behave alone or around others. Here’s a list of what non-physical self-harm looks like:
- Starving or depriving yourself of food deliberately
- Substance abuse/ Misusing alcohol or drugs
- Poisoning yourself with toxic substances
- Speaking about wishing to end your life
- Being withdrawn and aloof all the time
- Being self-loathing and expressing a wish to punish yourself
- Not feeling good or worthy enough for anything and self-sabotaging
- Putting yourself in harm’s way without feeling like it’s wrong or risky
What can be done?
As non-physical self-harm is not apparent as physical self-harm, you might sometimes not be aware that a loved one is struggling with inner pain or conflict. Never blame yourself and feel that you can’t support them. Let them know that you are there for them and you would help them through this journey. However, professional help is necessary. Please feel free to call me so I can help your loved one find inner healing, step by step.
You can also visit my website; see about the services I offer of how I can help you.
Conclusion
All types of self-harm are dangerous and can cost someone their life. Should you or a loved one struggle with emotional pain, reach out to people who can help. Remember, we all deserve to be the best, healed versions of ourselves. Your life is more precious than any problem or feeling of unworthiness. We are all worthy of shaping and living the ideal life we all envision for ourselves. With My Kinda Life, it is all possible.