It can be hard to imagine why anyone would want to cut themselves or hurt themselves on purpose.
Self-harm can be fairly common among teens.
What Constitutes Self-Harm?
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Self-harmdescribes any deliberate action intended to cause physical pain.
Other ways to self-harm include:
Why Do Teens Cut Themselves?
Teens who hurt themselves aren’t crazy and their self-injury doesn’t mean they’re suicidal.
Instead, it just means they’re having trouble coping with their pain in a healthy manner.
The physical act of hurting their bodies provides a temporary sense of emotional relief.
It also provides a sense of control.
A teen who engages in self-injury is likely to feel like they can control the pain better.
In addition, the injury releases endorphins into the bloodstream, which also provides a temporary boost of mood.
So a stressed-out teen may cut their arms as a way to relieve stress.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
If you suspect your teen is deliberately injuring themselves, it’s important to intervene.
These steps can help you start a discussion and find them theprofessional helpthey need.
With early identification, support from their family, and professional assistance, they can successfully stop self-harming.
You might start by asking your child’s pediatrician for a referral.
Treatments may include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
SomeLexapro(escitalopram),Prozac(fluoxetine),Cymbalta(duloxetine), andZoloft(sertraline).
National Alliance on Mental Illness.Self-harm.
2019;8:F1000 Faculty Rev-1794.
