Get to know why people self-harm themselves. Check out our blog to know the reasons behind it, how to support and help those struggling.

1. Why do People Resort to Self-Harm?
Dr. JPS Bhatia : May 8, 2024
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In recent times I have seen many of my clients resorting to self-harm when they are triggered and their
families are always baffled with how their child can do such a thing. They are unable to comprehend
what went wrong or why their child has the urge to cut himself or to physically harm himself.
From a very tender age, children may or may not be taught how to express themselves and while most
of them learn this at their own pace, some develop different forms of expression which are always not
agreeable; self harm is one of them.
Self-harm, often misunderstood and stigmatized, is a complex behaviour with underlying psychological
factors. Individuals who engage in self-harm are not seeking attention or trying to be dramatic; rather,
it’s often a coping mechanism for dealing with overwhelming emotions or distress. In this article, we’ll
explore the psychology behind self-harm and delve into the factors that contribute to this behaviour.
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2. Self-harm, also known as self-injury or self-mutilation, refers to deliberate, non-suicidal actions that
cause physical harm to oneself. These actions can include cutting, burning, scratching, hitting, or even
hair-pulling. While self-harm is not a mental disorder itself, it is often associated with underlying mental
health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or personality disorders.
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One of the key psychological factors driving self-harm is emotional distress. For many individuals, self-
harm serves as a way to cope with intense feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, or numbness. It provides
temporary relief from overwhelming emotions by redirecting attention away from emotional pain
towards physical pain, which can be more manageable or easier to control. In a way, self-harm
becomes a coping mechanism—a maladaptive attempt to regulate emotions and alleviate
psychological distress.
Another important aspect of self-harm is the sense of control it provides. When life feels chaotic or out
of control, self-harm can serve as a way for individuals to regain a sense of agency over their bodies
and experiences. By inflicting pain upon themselves, they may feel a temporary sense of power or
mastery over their emotions and circumstances. This illusion of control can be seductive, even though
it ultimately perpetuates a cycle of harm.
Additionally, self-harm can serve as a means of communication. For some individuals, especially those
who struggle to express their emotions verbally, self-injury becomes a way to communicate their
inner pain or distress to others. It can be a cry for help—a desperate attempt to reach out and seek
support or understanding from those around them. However, because self-harm is often
misunderstood or met with negative reactions, it can further exacerbate feelings of shame and
isolation.
Furthermore, self-harm can become addictive due to the release of endorphins—natural chemicals in

3. the brain that act as painkillers and mood elevators. When a person engages in self-harm, their brain
releases endorphins in response to the pain, producing a temporary euphoric or calming effect. Over
time, this reinforcement cycle can lead to dependence, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to
stop engaging in self-harming behaviours.
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It’s important to recognise that self-harm is not a solution to underlying problems; rather, it is a
symptom of deeper psychological distress. Addressing the root causes of self-harm requires a
comprehensive approach that focuses on building healthier coping mechanisms, improving emotional
regulation skills, and addressing underlying mental health issues through therapy, medication, or
other interventions.
If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm, it’s crucial to seek help from a qualified
mental health professional. Therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment to explore the
underlying issues contributing to self-harm and develop healthier ways of coping with distress.
Additionally, building a strong support network of friends, family, or support groups can offer invaluable
encouragement and understanding throughout the recovery process.
In conclusion, self-harm is a complex behaviour with deep psychological roots. It often serves as a
maladaptive coping mechanism for managing overwhelming emotions, regaining a sense of control,
communicating inner pain, and seeking temporary relief through the release of endorphins. Addressing
self-harm requires compassion, understanding, and comprehensive treatment aimed at addressing
underlying psychological issues and building healthier coping strategies.
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