It is difficult to imagine the reason behind harming yourself and that too, intentionally and for parents to know the fact that their children are indulging in self-destruction. It is quite painful for them to digest the fact that their creation isn’t respecting their purpose of life.
According to research, 15 to 20% of teenagers attempt to injure themselves. Luckily, there are maximum cases where they are made aware of a healthier way of living and stop harming themselves.
How do we define self-harm?
Any intentional action that results in physical injury enunciates the occurrence of self-harm. It has been observed that females harm themselves more than that of males in order to express their feelings or how difficult it is to succumb in unfavorable situations. Cuts, burnt or scratches on the skin have been regarded as the most common forms of self-harm. Hitting your head against the wall, beating yourself, punching hard on chest, pulling hair, etc. are few heinous forms of self-injury that have also been observed.
The reason behind harming one’s own self
Harming one’s own self or suicidal attempts doesn’t mean they are mentally unstable or just crazy. Their way of dealing with issues isn’t just healthy; hence, they choose the darker way of dealing with problems. It gives them immense relief after hurting themselves, and they consider the injury to be the reason of pain and issues in life. A sense of self-control has also been observed after the injury takes place. According to teens, they can control the pain they bear through the means of self-harm. Due to the release of endorphins, there’s a sudden enhancement in the mood of a teenager. So, when in stress, they might harm themselves by cutting or scratching on arms to get through the pain. In other words, they find peace in harming themselves rather than dealing it the other way.
Tried and tested methods to prevent self-harming
A victim of self-injury might be found with scratches on his/her body covered with bandages or full-sleeve clothes. If you find out, he/she is engaging in such heinous crime; it is time for you to take strict action. Few steps are listed to help you out:
- It has been often observed that asking out directly about any issue, helps. Rather than judging or punishing him/her, you should interrogate about the reason for committing such a thing. It works effectively.
- Validating the teen’s pain gives them the emotional support that they aren’t wrong to feel pained. It gives them a sense of validation that feeling drained for a reason isn’t a crime. It is a natural human trait.
- Expression of thoughts in a healthier manner must be ensured. Co-curricular activities like drawing, painting, cycling or any other daily life activities where the victim is being spotted with no such drained feelings are the best time where one should interrogate the victim about their feelings. While on a brisk walk, one can share feelings easily as they can connect well with people and peaceful surrounding.
- Always seek professional help when self-harming activities occur at your disposal. An experienced counselor, therapist or a psychologist can guide the victim, the correct way to deal with issues and stop self-harming. They elucidate healthier ways to deal with any uncanny situations.
- Allow the victim to select their close friends with whom they trust from the bottom of their heart and can share problems, easily. It would help them cope with stressful situations and lessen the act of self-harm.
- It is not the work of a magic wand that such activities will vanquish away in seconds. It takes time to fume away but only with the help of professional minds, early identification of such violent act and complete support of family members.
