Understanding
Self-Harm
Self-harm is when someone intentionally injures or damages their body as a way to cope with emotional distress, overwhelming feelings, or difficult situations. It can include cutting, burning, hitting, or other forms of self-injury. Self-harm is not a mental illness itself but is often linked to underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
What does self-harm feel like?
People who self-harm may feel intense emotional pain, numbness, or a sense of being overwhelmed. Self-harm can provide temporary relief or a sense of control, but often leads to feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation. Many struggle to express their emotions or ask for help, and may hide their injuries from others.
How to overcome self-harm with therapy
Therapy helps address the underlying emotional causes of self-harm and teaches healthier coping strategies. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based therapies are effective in helping individuals manage distress, regulate emotions, and build self-esteem. Medication may be recommended if self-harm is linked to conditions like depression or anxiety.
Through self-harm counselling, you can:
Identify triggers and underlying issues
Learn healthy ways to manage intense emotions
Develop problem-solving and communication skills
Build self-worth and resilience
Step-by-step guide to managing self-harm
Recognise triggers: Notice situations or feelings that lead to self-harm urges.
Seek professional help: Talk to your GP or a mental health professional for assessment and support.
Engage in therapy: Participate in CBT, DBT, or other recommended therapies to learn new coping skills.
Develop a safety plan: Identify alternative ways to cope and people you can contact in a crisis.
Practise self-care: Prioritise sleep, nutrition, and healthy routines; avoid alcohol and drugs.
Understanding
Self-Harm
Self-harm is when someone intentionally injures or damages their body as a way to cope with emotional distress, overwhelming feelings, or difficult situations. It can include cutting, burning, hitting, or other forms of self-injury. Self-harm is not a mental illness itself but is often linked to underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
What does self-harm feel like?
People who self-harm may feel intense emotional pain, numbness, or a sense of being overwhelmed. Self-harm can provide temporary relief or a sense of control, but often leads to feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation. Many struggle to express their emotions or ask for help, and may hide their injuries from others.
How to overcome self-harm with therapy
Therapy helps address the underlying emotional causes of self-harm and teaches healthier coping strategies. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based therapies are effective in helping individuals manage distress, regulate emotions, and build self-esteem. Medication may be recommended if self-harm is linked to conditions like depression or anxiety.
Through self-harm counselling, you can:
Identify triggers and underlying issues
Learn healthy ways to manage intense emotions
Develop problem-solving and communication skills
Build self-worth and resilience
Step-by-step guide to managing self-harm
Recognise triggers: Notice situations or feelings that lead to self-harm urges.
Seek professional help: Talk to your GP or a mental health professional for assessment and support.
Engage in therapy: Participate in CBT, DBT, or other recommended therapies to learn new coping skills.
Develop a safety plan: Identify alternative ways to cope and people you can contact in a crisis.
Practise self-care: Prioritise sleep, nutrition, and healthy routines; avoid alcohol and drugs.
Understanding
Self-Harm
Self-harm is when someone intentionally injures or damages their body as a way to cope with emotional distress, overwhelming feelings, or difficult situations. It can include cutting, burning, hitting, or other forms of self-injury. Self-harm is not a mental illness itself but is often linked to underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.
What does self-harm feel like?
People who self-harm may feel intense emotional pain, numbness, or a sense of being overwhelmed. Self-harm can provide temporary relief or a sense of control, but often leads to feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation. Many struggle to express their emotions or ask for help, and may hide their injuries from others.
How to overcome self-harm with therapy
Therapy helps address the underlying emotional causes of self-harm and teaches healthier coping strategies. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based therapies are effective in helping individuals manage distress, regulate emotions, and build self-esteem. Medication may be recommended if self-harm is linked to conditions like depression or anxiety.
Through self-harm counselling, you can:
Identify triggers and underlying issues
Learn healthy ways to manage intense emotions
Develop problem-solving and communication skills
Build self-worth and resilience
Step-by-step guide to managing self-harm
Recognise triggers: Notice situations or feelings that lead to self-harm urges.
Seek professional help: Talk to your GP or a mental health professional for assessment and support.
Engage in therapy: Participate in CBT, DBT, or other recommended therapies to learn new coping skills.
Develop a safety plan: Identify alternative ways to cope and people you can contact in a crisis.
Practise self-care: Prioritise sleep, nutrition, and healthy routines; avoid alcohol and drugs.
Let's find your perfect therapist.
Let's find your perfect therapist.
Let's find your perfect therapist.
Tailored support from trusted Manchester-based therapists — in-person or online.
Tailored support from trusted Manchester-based therapists — in-person or online.