Self-Harm Through the Eyes of Teens

Maxtone-Smith, 2018

Throughout teenagehood, one in ten boys and one in four girls will self-harm (Maxtone-Smith, 2018). This can range from cutting to burning to substance abuse to epilation with the purpose of causing one's self pain. These acts are often misjudged as attempted suicide, but Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) stems from the desire to live in those experiencing emotional or mental distress. While there are numerous reasons an individual may turn to self-harm, the most common documented reasons are (Teen Mental Health, 2020) :

1. A coping mechanism for stress, NSSI is often viewed by the individual as a way to take back control of their emotions or experiences.

2. A distraction from distress, performing NSSI releases chemicals in the brain that allow the individual to momentarily dissociate from their upsetting thoughts.

Statistically, teens and young adults are the most likely to self-harm, with 60% of individuals first beginning NSSI between seventh and eighth grade (Sharp, 2013). Similarly alarming is the increasing rate of self-harm, primarily in teenaged females, who are now 68% more likely to engage in NSSI than they were a decade ago (Twenge, 2017). Self-harm is also more common in those with mental illness (especially anxiety disorder-AD) or non-heterosexual identity, reaching over 50% in women with mental illness and 20% of non-heterosexual teens (Warren, Daraganova, Baxter, 2019).

Warren, Daraganova, Baxter, 2019

For someone who self-harms, this coping method can become addictive and habitual, which means it can be difficult to address for an aware family member or friend. It is important to remember that this behavior is not intrinsically indicative of suicidal thoughts or actions and that someone who self-harms cannot be expected to alter their behavior before they have other coping mechanisms in place. Attempting to provide support and professional help is often the most beneficial path, but such suggestions can be poorly received if the individual is not yet ready to accept aid.

This topic is one that has played an integral role in my life. My dearest friend was suicidal for some of her teenage years and has self-harmed as a coping mechanism as long as I have known her (from the time we were 11). When I had first realized where she got her scabs and scars I was confused and scared. I thought these meant she didn't want to live and I didn't know how to support her mental wellbeing. Ultimately, I became so passionate about the issue that I became involved in a group called Teen Line, where teens are trained to help at-risk teens through an anonymous hotline. This provided me with the tools to discuss mental health issues and guide my friend to seek further aid. Now, I hope that this blog can help others to better understand NSSI and how they might support someone looking for guidance. Self-harm has become even more relevant through this pandemic than it was previously. With at-risk teens and young adults now spending countless hours at home with only their thoughts as company, the risk of self-harm as a coping strategy is at its height for many of those affected. During this time, it is crucial to be there for those who reach out and recognize that healthy coping mechanisms are not ubiquitous. Change is frightening, and everyone needs to feel that they have someone to lean on.

If you feel your loved one or friend might prefer speaking to a trained teen they can call Teen Line at 855-4673. During the COVID-19 lockdown, they are operating remotely by responding to texts and emails daily.

References:

Teen Mental Health. (2020). Understanding Self-Injury/ Self-Harm. http://teenmentalhealth.org/understanding-self-injury-self-harm/

Twenge, J. (2017, November 21). 5 Reasons Why Self-Harm and Depression Have Tripled in Girls. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/our-changing-culture/201711/5-reasons-why-self-harm-and-depression-have-tripled-in-girls/

Maxtone-Smith, T. (2018, August 30). The self-harm crisis blighting British teens. https://theday.co.uk/stories/the-self-harm-crisis-blighting-british-teens/

Sharp, M. (2013, February 11). The truth about self harm. https://www.bvswnews.com/opinion/2013/02/11/the-truth-about-self-harm/

Warren, D., Daraganova, G., & Baxter, J. (2019, September 02). Australian teens doing well, but some still at high risk of suicide and self-harm. https://theconversation.com/australian-teens-doing-well-but-some-still-at-high-risk-of-suicide-and-self-harm-83303/