Self Harming

Many people who self harm feel that the self-harming may be the only thing in their life that they feel they have some control over. It is seen as a coping mechanism to deal with other problems, offering distraction, a chance to exert control over the body, and a way of releasing and expressing emotions. Some feel self-harm is calming when they feel overwhelmed, helping them to focus, slow their emotions down and regain control of a situation. For others it is part of a ritual that helps them feel safe. Many use it to help bury thoughts or feelings, flashbacks or nightmares, numbing the emotions. Others see it as a form of punishment to deal with feelings of shame and guilt. Counselling will offer a space where the individual can talk through their problems, and establish what is at the heart of their need to self-harm. It gives a non-judgemental,