Self-Injury Awareness Day – 1st March 2025
Self-Injury Awareness Day: Breaking the Silence, Offering Support
Every year on March 1st, Self-Injury Awareness Day (SIAD) provides an opportunity to shed light on a topic often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. As a therapist, I see firsthand the struggles individuals face when dealing with self-injury. Today, I want to help break the silence, raise awareness, and offer guidance for those who are affected.
Understanding Self-Injury
Self-injury, or self-harm, refers to the deliberate act of causing physical harm to oneself as a way of coping with emotional pain, distress, or overwhelming feelings. Common forms include cutting, burning, scratching, or hitting oneself. While self-injury is not necessarily a suicide attempt, it is a sign of deep emotional suffering and should always be taken seriously.
Dispelling the Myths
There are many misconceptions surrounding self-injury, which can contribute to stigma and shame. Let's address some common myths:
- "Self-harm is just attention-seeking." In reality, many who self-harm do so in secrecy and struggle with feelings of guilt and shame.
- "Only teenagers self-harm." While it often begins in adolescence, people of all ages, including adults, can engage in self-injury.
- "If someone self-harms, they must want to die." Self-injury is usually a coping mechanism rather than a suicide attempt, though individuals who self-harm may also struggle with suicidal thoughts.
Why Do People Self-Harm?
Self-injury can serve various functions, such as:
- Expressing emotions that feel overwhelming or difficult to verbalise.
- Creating a sense of control when life feels chaotic.
- Relieving numbness or emotional emptiness.
- Punishing oneself due to feelings of guilt or self-hatred.
Understanding these underlying reasons can foster greater empathy and encourage supportive conversations.
How Can You Help?
If you know someone who self-harms, your support can make a significant difference. Here's how you can help:
- Listen without judgment. Avoid reacting with shock or anger. Instead, offer a safe space for open discussion.
- Encourage professional support. A GP, therapist, or support group can provide vital help.
- Offer alternative coping strategies. Journaling, exercise, creative arts, or mindfulness techniques can help manage difficult emotions.
- Stay connected. Regular check-ins can help someone feel less isolated and more valued.
Seeking Help
If you are struggling with self-injury, please know that you are not alone. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional, trusted friend, or a support organisation such as:
- Harmless
- Mind
- National Self Harm Network
Final Thoughts
Self-Injury Awareness Day is an important reminder that behind every act of self-harm is a person who deserves compassion, understanding, and support. By talking openly, challenging stigma, and promoting healing, we can create a world where no one feels they have to suffer in silence.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out. You deserve help, hope, and healing.