Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Non-suicidal self-injury means that a person injures themself on purpose. For example, they may cut, scratch, or bite their skin until it bleeds. Self-injury is serious. So it's important to seek help from a health professional. People who self-injure don't do it to die. But some may also be thinking about suicide. To assess, the doctor may ask how often the injuries happen and if they bleed, bruise, or cause pain. You may be asked how self-injuring makes you feel. The doctor also may ask questions to find out if you have other health conditions, like depression. There are things that may put you at risk of self-injury. For example, you may be at risk if you: Signs that a person might be self-injuring include: If you or someone you know is self-injuring, talk to a doctor or a mental health professional. Self-injury is treated with counseling. Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are common types of counseling for self-injury. Medicines are sometimes used with counseling. Ask your doctor about the different types of treatment. Then you can decide together about what might work best. Here are some ways you can care for yourself if you self-injure. Look for someone who makes you feel safe and welcome. You can ask your doctor for a referral. A health professional such as your doctor or counselor can help you. Look for a self-injury support group. Ask for help from trusted friends, family, and community members. Use these skills when you have big feelings, anxiety, and stress. A counselor can help you find what works for you. For example, together you may learn that yoga, deep breathing, or certain music calms you. If it's an emergency, call 911. Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can: Consider saving these numbers in your phone. Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online. Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
Overview
What is non-suicidal self-injury?
How is it diagnosed?
What puts you at risk?
What are the signs?
How is it treated?
How can you care for yourself?
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 31, 2024 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardNon-Suicidal Self-Injury
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.