Home Self Injury
Self Injury
Myth: Self injury is a failed suicide attempt
It is a way of coping with life, not a bid to die. Injuries are seldom life threatening. A survivor may want to kill her feelings – not herself.
Myth: It is attention seeking, ignore it
Everyone needs attention. For some, self-injury is a desperate physical attempt to draw attention to the mental and emotional pain they are suffering. This should not be ignored, it is important to give attention and listen to what the survivor has to say. On the other hand, many people who self-injure hide their injuries from others. It has far more to do with coping than seeking attention.
Myth: Self-injury is a sign of insanity
This is not true. It is a sign of distress and of someone trying to cope with their life, despite great pain. Many survivors who self-injure, lead successful lives, have careers, partners, family and friends.
Myth: Someone who self-injures is a danger to others
Self-injury is often very private and not openly discussed due to the negative response it receives. Someone who self-harms is no more likely to be a danger to others as anyone else.
What you can do
Avoid drugs and/or alcohol
If you think you are likely to self-harm, so that you don’t accidentally inflict a more severe wound than you meant to.
Prevent infection
By using something clean when you cut. Never share what you use to self-injure. Try to avoid areas where there are major veins and arteries close to the surface. Make sure your tetanus jabs are up to date.
Put burns under cold water
For at least twenty to thirty minutes. Burns and scalds can be more severe than you think – the pain can be far worse later. Cling film, loosely covering the burn can act as a temporary dressing. You can buy creams, sprays etc for burns from the chemist.
Be prepared
Have dressings and antiseptics ready so you can care for your injuries.
Clean any cuts with gauze swabs
Do not use cotton wool. Cover with a dry, non-adhesive dressing. It can be handy to keep antiseptic creams and sprays handy.
