Teen Self Harm

Self-harm is defined as including “all intentional acts of self‐poisoning (such as intentional drug overdoses) or self‐injury (such as self‐cutting), regardless of degree of suicidal intent or other types of motivation.”

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) involves harming one’s own body without the intention of suicide, usually as a coping mechanism for emotional distress or mental health conditions. It is important to note that not all teens who engage in self-harm are suicidal. But although they may not intend anything fatal, it is developing a dangerous habit that can increase the risk of suicide and prove to become fatal if not treated as soon as possible.

There isn’t a single cause across the board for why some teenagers exhibit NSSI behaviors. There is a whole range of emotional and psychological reasons why it becomes a coping mechanism for some, such as emotional pain, loneliness, a lack of self-worth, wanting to feel better, overstimulation, fearfulness, feeling overwhelmed, and self-punishment.

The attraction to self-harm comes from the endorphin release as well as other chemicals that result in bodily injury and harm that help us naturally cope with pain and trauma.