Is Self-Harm Suicidal?

 

Is Self-Harm Suicidal?

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One of the things people do to get over emotional pain is to try to numb the pain, and in the process, they get into self-harm. Mostly, self-harm is a coping mechanism that those struggling with their emotions turn to. In some cases, self-harm is intentional from the onset, while in other cases, it’s a resultant effect of what people are doing to relieve pain.

 

Mental Conditions Associated with Self-Harming Behaviors

Although self-harm is not a mental health disorder, it is a resultant effect of going through some mental conditions like:

1. Depression

2. Eating disorder

3. History of abuse

4. Substance misuse

5. History of violence

6. Family dysfunction

7. Borderline personality disorder                                   

8. Post-traumatic distress disorder

 

Self-Harm and Suicide

The intent of self-harm is different from that of suicide. In self-harm, the victim wants to numb their pain, while in suicide, the victim wants to take their life. It is important to note that their symptoms are similar, making it difficult to predict if a person is self-harming or attempting suicide. But either way, identifying the symptoms in you or your loved one and looking out for prevention measures will go a long way in avoiding the two. 

 

The Difference Between Suicide and Self-Harm

1. Self-harm causes damage on the surface of the body, while suicide is more lethal.

2. The intent of self-harming is to feel better from emotional pain. In suicide, it is to end one’s life.

3. The stats of committing suicide are low compared to self-harm, which is mostly done regularly or at intervals as a coping mechanism for pain.

 

 

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