On Self-Injury Awareness Day, we want to take time to shine a light on a subject that is often misunderstood or hidden: self-harm. 

Self-harm is a coping strategy: a way of managing overwhelming emotions when words feel impossible to find. At Inspire Wellbeing Services, we believe that knowledge and compassion can counter the unhelpful myths and stigma that exist around self-harm, and open the door to healing. 

In this blog, we aim to answer the questions people most often ask — whether you are someone who self-harms, someone worried about a loved one, or someone wanting to understand more. 

Self-harm (also referred to as self-injury) is when a person intentionally hurts themselves as a way of coping with emotional distress. While cutting is the most recognised expression, self-harm can take many forms, including: 

• Burning or scalding 

• Hitting or punching 

• Scratching or picking skin 

• Hair pulling 

• Overdosing or misusing medication 

• Restricting food  

• Over exercising 

Importantly, self-harm is not the same as a suicide attempt, although the two can sometimes co-exist. For many people, self-harm is about survival: not wanting life to end but wanting the pain to stop. 

This is one of the most frequently asked questions. The answer, however, is not simple because self-harm serves different purposes for different people. 

Common reasons, which may be unconscious, include: 

• To release intense emotions such as anger, shame, or sadness 

• To feel something when feeling emotionally numb 

• To regain a sense of control 

• To punish oneself due to feelings of guilt or self-blame  

• To communicate pain when words feel unsafe or unavailable 

• To provide care and compassion to self after an injury has been made to self soothe. 

Often, self-harm develops during periods of high stress, trauma, loss, or emotional invalidation. While it may bring temporary relief, it can quickly become a cycle that is difficult to break without the right support. 

Common myths about self-harm (and the truth) 

Unfortunately, stigma still surrounds self-injury. Let us gently challenge some common myths: 

“People who self-harm just want attention.”
In reality, many people go to great lengths to hide their injuries. What they often want is understanding, not attention. 

“If it was serious, they would stop.”
Self-harm can become addictive because it changes brain chemistry. Stopping is rarely about willpower alone. 

“Talking about self-harm will make it worse.”
In fact, compassionate conversations can reduce shame and help people feel less alone. 

Understanding this allows us to respond with empathy rather than fear or judgement. 

If you are worried about someone, you might notice: 

• Unexplained injuries or frequent “accidents” 

• Wearing long sleeves even in warm weather 

• Withdrawal from friends or family 

• Changes in mood, sleep, or eating patterns 

• Strong feelings of shame or self-criticism 

While these signs do not always mean someone is self-harming, they can be an invitation to check in gently and without assumptions. 

Many people worry about “saying the wrong thing.” However, support does not require perfection, it requires presence. 

Helpful approaches include: 

• Listening without judgement or shock 

• Avoiding ultimatums or threats 

• Acknowledging their pain, even if you don’t fully understand it 

• Exploring safety around the self-harm, such as using antibacterial wipes 

• Encouraging professional support at their pace 

Sometimes, simply saying “I’m really glad you told me,” can be incredibly powerful. 

Yes and importantly, therapy is not about forcing someone to stop before they are ready. 

At Inspire Wellbeing Services, we understand that self-harm often makes sense in the context of someone’s life experiences. Therapy focuses on: 

• Understanding the emotional function of self-harm 

• Developing safer coping strategies 

• Reducing shame and self-criticism 

• Building emotional regulation and self-compassion 

• Addressing underlying trauma, anxiety, or depression 

Recovery is not linear, and lapses do not mean failure. Instead, each step toward understanding is progress. 

If you are reading this and self-harm is part of your life, we can help. 

Self-harm is often a sign that you need care, not punishment. With the right support, it is possible to find new ways of coping: ones that allow you to express your pain without harming your body. 

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, urgent support is essential. In the UK, you can: 

• Call 999 in an emergency 

• Contact NHS 111 

• Reach out to Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24/7) 

• Contact Childline 0800 1111 

Seeking help is not a failure, it is an act of courage. 

At Inspire Wellbeing Services, we offer compassionate, confidential support tailored to each individual. Our approach is: 

• Trauma-informed 

• Non-judgemental 

• Collaborative 

• Focused on long-term emotional wellbeing 

Whether you are seeking support for yourself or guidance as a parent, partner, or professional, you do not have to navigate this alone. 

Self-Injury Awareness Day is not about forcing conversations: it is about creating safety, understanding, and hope. 

By talking openly, sharing accurate information, and offering empathy, we reduce shame and remind individuals that support is available. 

If this blog has raised questions or feelings for you, we encourage you to talk to loved ones and reach out to a professional for support when you are ready.