Emotional Chaos: The World of Self-Harm
- nysajain
- Oct 20, 2024
- 3 min read
Self-harm, often referred to as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), is a phenomenon characterized
by the deliberate infliction of damage to one's own body without the intention of ending one’s life (Klonsky, Ed D. "International Society for the Study of Self-Injury.")
This behavior manifests in various forms ranging from scratching to burning, but among adolescents aged 12 to 18, cutting is the most common method. Self-harm is not merely a cry for help; it is often a complex coping mechanism that is a result of emotional and psychological challenges. Many individuals who engage in self-harm experience nuanced feelings of sadness, anger, or anxiety that often can become so overwhelming that NSSI serves as the emotional channel. The paradox lies in the fact that while self-harm can
temporarily alleviate the turbulence one may be experiencing, it simultaneously also creates the self-imposed physical triggers, scars.
Alarmingly, self-harm behaviors can begin as early as ages 10 to 12. To place things into
perspective children who are not yet in high school, a time riddled with identity crises, social
expectations, and college preparations, are already physically injuring themselves because they lack a healthy outlet. Puberty brings on a multitude of physiological changes, and for many, these changes trigger emotional turbulence. While all adolescents experience some level of mood swings as a result of it, some may find themselves resorting to self-harm as a misguided coping mechanism.
Understanding the associated symptoms of non-suicidal self-injury can be vital for the prevention of its prolonged impacts. The symptoms to look out for include:
● Persistent wearing of long sleeves/hoodies: An individual may wear long-sleeved
clothing even in warm weather, often to conceal injuries or scars.
● Emotional withdrawal: A marked change in behavior, such as increased isolation
inside the home or detachment from social circles.
● Unexplained bruises or scars: The emergence of physical markings without plausible
explanations
The triggers for self-harm are varied and often interrelated. These may include but are not
limited to:
1. Academic and Social Pressure: These are often big parts of the adolescent
experiences and although they can be stress inducers for many, for some they may
trigger self-harm as a means to resolve it.
2. Boredom: Yes, boredom. It can surprisingly act as a significant trigger. This is because
the absence of engaging activities or social interactions can lead individuals to
desperately partake in self-harm as a means to feel something, even if what they are
experiencing is physical pain induced by self-harm.
3. Emotional Numbness: For some, self-harm is a way to counteract feeling
disconnected. Engaging in physical pain can in some ways make the individual feel more
grounded.
Self-harm is the result of a complicated whirlwind of emotions that an astonishing number of
young people experience. It is the epitome of the very emotional chaos they experience within. As non-suicidal self-injury can make one feel as though they are lost in the overwhelming sea of their thoughts it is important to ensure these individuals feel seen and understood. We can simply do this by taking the time to look out for the warning signs of self-harm and ensuring that when approaching the matter we handle it with the necessary precaution to avoid triggering the individual. We must do so because even though Self-harm in itself is not a suicide attempt it can perpetuate the cycle of grief that can result in loss of life for some.
If you or any of your loved ones are struggling with Self-harm or want to learn more about reach out to your school counselors or the following online resources:
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