Asking for help is hard to do, especially when you feel as if you are alone. Self-harm is difficult to deal with and has become increasingly common among people of all ages. It involves hurting yourself on purpose as a way of helping a person cope with emotional pain or distress. Self-harm can consist of methods such as cutting, burning, hitting or scratching yourself.

There are many different reasons why individuals would look to self harm. Some people feel that they are not in control of their lives and they feel powerless or overwhelmed by their emotions. Others may use it as a way of expressing their feelings, such as frustration, anger, or sadness because they may be struggling to communicate.

Despite the immediate relief that self-harm may provide, there are a number of negative outcomes.. These could range from physical scars and injuries to emotional and psychological damage. People who engage in self-harm often report feeling ashamed or embarrassed that they did it in the first place, which can lead to further isolation and anxiety. Even further, it can lead them to hide their actions from others. This can make it difficult for family members, friends, and mental health professionals to identify and help the issues that are contributing to the behavior.

If you or someone else you know has recently self-harmed and needs help, the first step is to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

If you are looking for emotional support, there are several resources that can help. Hotlines, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, or the Crisis text line are great resources to reach out to. Both are available 24/7 and provide confidential support from trained counseling professionals.

Doctors and mental health professionals are available to support and guidance one may need to begin a recovery process. Self-harm can be hard to overcome and most of the time, professional help is needed. Do not hesitate to reach out to family members, trusted friends or adults.