Self-Harm

Self harm is when one has the intention of harming themselves purposefully. This is usually mistaken as a mental illness, but it is a form expressing one's internal feelings. 

Signs

• feeling shame and guilt
• emotional distress
  
• excessive covering of body
  
• unusual scars or open wounds
  
• bruising or soreness 
  

A Direct Approach 
For yourself:

• If you have self harmed previously, a first step can be trying to lessen the intensity until it eventually is no longer a habit.
• You can also find ways to avoid the compulsion to self harm by doing things that may distract you or take your mind off of things.
• Know what gives you control of your feelings. When under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it’s much more difficult to be in control of your feelings.

​For a friend:

• When looking for symptoms or signs, be cautious of their emotional state. 
• Seek immediate help from a trusted adult (teacher, parents, counselor, etc.). 
  
• Talk to your friend constantly. Keep checking on them to make sure they are okay. Also note, they may be reluctant to express their real thoughts, and this is completely normal.
  
• ALWAYS BE KIND. 
  

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