Self-harm refers to deliberately hurting yourself as a way of coping with overwhelming emotions or difficult circumstances. It can take many forms, including cutting, burning, hitting, or other actions that cause physical pain or injury. Whilst it can be frightening for those who witness it or learn about it, self-harm is often a person’s way of managing feelings that seem otherwise unbearable.
Understanding Self-Harm
The act of self-harm is not necessarily about wanting to die. For many people, it serves as a release valve when emotions become too intense to bear. According to the HSE, psychological treatment through talking therapies is recommended for people who self-harm, with approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy being particularly helpful.
The reasons behind self-harm vary considerably from person to person. Some people describe it as a way of expressing pain that feels impossible to put into words. Others use it to feel something when they are emotionally numb, or to punish themselves for perceived failures. Still others find it provides temporary relief from anxiety, depression, or traumatic memories. Whatever the underlying reason, self-harm is a signal that someone is struggling and needs support.
Who is Affected?
Self-harm affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. Data from the National Self-Harm Registry Ireland shows that hospitals across the country see thousands of presentations each year, with women accounting for around 59% of cases and men for 41%. Rates tend to be higher among younger age groups, though self-harm certainly occurs across the lifespan.
These figures only capture those who present to emergency departments. Many more people self-harm without ever seeking medical attention, meaning the true prevalence is likely much higher than official statistics suggest.
How Therapy Can Help
Therapy offers a safe, non-judgemental space to explore what lies beneath self-harming behaviour. Rather than simply trying to stop the behaviour itself, a therapist will work with you to understand its function in your life. What feelings or situations trigger the urge? What needs is it meeting? What alternatives might serve you better?
This process takes time and requires building trust with your therapist. You will not be pressured to stop before you have developed other ways of coping. Many people find that as they learn to process difficult emotions through therapy, the urge to self-harm gradually diminishes on its own.
Therapeutic approaches that can be helpful include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, which focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, which teaches skills for managing intense emotions. Your therapist will work with you to find the approach that fits your particular needs.
How to Arrange an Appointment
You can select a therapist from our team who has experience working with self-harm. Contact our centres directly at 01 677 1021, and we will help you find the right support. You can also book your appointment online now.
If you are in crisis, please reach out to emergency services or contact Pieta House on 1800 247 247 for immediate support.
FAQ
No. Our therapists understand that self-harm is a coping mechanism, not a character flaw. You will be met with compassion and understanding, not judgement.
Absolutely not. Therapy can begin wherever you are right now. The goal is to help you develop alternative coping strategies at your own pace, not to demand you stop immediately.
We can support family members and friends who are concerned about a loved one. Understanding self-harm better often helps those around the person respond in more helpful ways.
Not necessarily. The presence of self-harm does not always mean someone is suicidal. However, self-harm can sometimes be associated with suicidal thoughts, so it is always important to take it seriously and seek appropriate support.
