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HomeMental HealthSelf Harm

12 Minutes

Edited & medically reviewed by THE BALANCE Team
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Self-harm is a growing concern around the globe, with an estimated 2 million people in the United States engaging in self-injurious behaviors each year. Shocking statistics reveal that suicide is the second leading cause of death among young adults aged 15-24, with self-harm being a major risk factor. The pandemic has taken a toll on mental health, and as a result, the rates of self-harm have surged by a staggering 333%.

Self-harm is a silent epidemic that affects people of all ages and demographics, with up to 17% of teenagers reporting engaging in self-injury at least once. In the US, the economic burden of self-harm exceeds $5 billion per year, highlighting the urgent need for effective self-harm rehab programs.

If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm, rehab can provide the tools and support needed to overcome this challenging condition. If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm, rehab can provide the tools and support needed to overcome this challenging condition.

Self-harm is a complex and often misunderstood behavior that involves intentionally hurting oneself. It can take many forms, including cutting, burning, hitting, and scratching [1]. Self-harm is not a mental illness or disorder itself, but rather a symptom of underlying mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma [2].

People who engage in self-harm may do so for a variety of reasons. It can be a way to cope with difficult emotions or feelings of numbness or emptiness. It can also be a way to release tension or to feel in control when other aspects of life feel chaotic or overwhelming. Some people may self-harm as a form of self-punishment or to communicate their distress to others [1].

Self-harm can have severe physical and emotional consequences. Repeated self-injury can lead to scarring, infection, and other health problems. It can also make it more difficult for a person to cope with underlying mental health issues, as self-harm can become a maladaptive coping mechanism that perpetuates rather than resolves problems [2].

Treatment for self-harm typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and support from loved ones. Therapy can help individuals identify the underlying issues that contribute to self-harm and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Medication may be prescribed to address underlying mental health issues such as depression or anxiety [2].

Support from loved ones can also play a critical role in recovery from self-harm. This can include emotional support, practical help with tasks such as seeking rehab for self-harm or attending self-harm treatment programs at premium high-end residential treatment centers, and providing a safe and supportive environment where the person can heal [1].

Self-harm rehab refers to the specialized form of mental health treatment aimed at helping individuals who engage in self-harm behaviors to address the underlying causes of such behavior, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and learn alternative ways of managing difficult emotions [1]. Self-harm rehab facilities may vary in the approaches they use to treat individuals with self-harm behavior.

The history of self-harm rehab dates back to the early 20th century when psychiatrists first began to explore the psychological and behavioral factors that contribute to self-harm. In the early 1900s, self-harm was often viewed as a symptom of hysteria, and treatments such as hypnotism and electroconvulsive therapy were used to treat it [3]. As our understanding of mental health issues has evolved, so has the approach to treating self-harm behavior.

Today, self-harm rehab programs often offer a combination of evidence-based therapies, medication management, and holistic interventions to address the complex nature of self-harm behavior [2]. Depending on the individual’s needs, self-harm rehab may involve individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, or a combination of these approaches.

In addition to therapy, self-harm rehab facilities may also offer medication management to address underlying mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. Holistic interventions such as mindfulness practices, yoga, and art therapy may also be incorporated to help individuals develop healthy coping mechanisms and learn to manage difficult emotions healthily [2].

Overall, self-harm rehab is designed to provide a supportive and therapeutic environment for individuals struggling with self-harm behavior. Through a combination of evidence-based therapies, medication management, and holistic interventions, individuals can learn to manage their emotions and develop healthier ways of coping with difficult feelings.

Self-harm addiction, also known as non-suicidal self-injury addiction, is a condition in which a person repeatedly engages in intentional, non-suicidal acts of self-harm that are difficult to control and often have a compulsive quality. This condition is often associated with underlying mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or borderline personality disorder, and may be used as a coping mechanism to relieve emotional distress [5][8].

Individuals who engage in self-harm addiction may experience a sense of relief or release after self-injury, which can reinforce the behavior and create a cycle of addiction. Over time, individuals may develop a tolerance for self-harm and require more frequent or intense episodes to achieve the same level of relief. This cycle can be difficult to break without professional help [5][8][9].

Self-harm addiction can take many forms, including cutting, burning, hitting, or scratching oneself. Individuals may use a variety of objects to self-injure, such as razors, knives, or glass. It is important to note that self-harm addiction is not the same as suicidal behavior, as the intent behind the behavior is not to end one’s life [5][8][10].

Several risk factors may contribute to the development of self-harm addiction, including a history of trauma or abuse, a family history of mental illness, and a lack of healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and emotions [3][4]. Additionally, individuals who struggle with substance abuse or addiction may be more likely to engage in self-harm behaviors [7].

Treatment for self-harm addiction typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and support groups. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to self-harm addiction. Other forms of therapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) or mindfulness-based therapies, may also be effective [3][4][6].

Self-harm addiction can be treated through various forms of therapy and counseling. Treatment options for self-harm addiction typically involve a combination of therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based therapies (4). CBT helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns that contribute to self-harm addiction, while DBT teaches skills for managing intense emotions and developing healthy coping mechanisms. Mindfulness-based therapies can help individuals increase self-awareness and decrease impulsive behaviors (3).

In addition to therapy, medication may also be used to treat underlying mental health conditions that contribute to self-harm addiction, such as depression or anxiety (5). Inpatient and residential treatment programs may also be recommended for individuals with severe self-harm addiction or co-occurring disorders (6).

After completing a treatment program, ongoing therapy and support can be critical in maintaining recovery from self-harm addiction. This may include individual or group therapy, support groups, and developing a strong social support network (7). It is important for individuals in recovery to have a relapse prevention plan in place and to continue practicing healthy coping mechanisms (3).

Self-harm is a serious issue that requires professional help to overcome. A self-harm treatment center provides a safe and supportive environment where individuals can receive the care and treatment they need to address underlying issues and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

The enrollment process at a self-harm treatment center typically involves an initial assessment to determine the individual’s needs and create a personalized treatment plan. This assessment may involve a physical exam, mental health evaluation, and a review of the individual’s medical and psychiatric history. Once the assessment is complete, the individual can be admitted to the treatment center [3].

Once admitted, individuals will follow a daily routine that typically involves a combination of therapy sessions, group activities, and other forms of treatment. The specific routine will vary depending on the level of care and the individual’s needs. For example, individuals in residential or inpatient treatment may have a more structured daily routine with fewer opportunities for unsupervised time, while those in outpatient treatment may have more flexibility in their daily schedule [4].

The timeline of treatment at a self-harm treatment center also varies depending on the individual’s needs and progress. Generally, treatment may last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The goal of treatment is to provide individuals with the tools and resources they need to manage their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies. Some individuals may be ready to leave the treatment center once they have achieved these goals, while others may require ongoing support and follow-up care [6].

Follow-up care and aftercare are important components of self-harm treatment. After leaving the treatment center, individuals may continue to receive therapy and support through outpatient treatment, support groups, or other resources. The goal of aftercare is to help individuals maintain their progress and prevent relapse [5]. Follow-up care may involve regular check-ins with a therapist or psychiatrist, as well as ongoing support from family and friends [7].

While the therapies offered at treatment centers for self-harm vary depending on the treatment center, self-harm treatment centers typically offer a range of evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. These therapies aim to help individuals understand the underlying issues that contribute to self-harm behaviors and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Self-harm, also known as self-injury or self-mutilation, is a condition that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It involves intentionally causing harm to one’s own body in a variety of ways, such as cutting, burning, or hitting oneself. If left untreated, self-harm can lead to severe physical and emotional consequences; in some cases, it can even be life-threatening [5].

Thankfully, many different levels of care are available for individuals struggling with self-harm, ranging from outpatient programs to inpatient residential facilities. Each level of care offers different types of services and accommodations to meet the unique needs of each patient [3].

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs are the lowest level of care for individuals struggling with self-harm. These programs are designed for patients who can manage their symptoms on their own and do not require 24/7 supervision. Outpatient programs typically involve weekly appointments with a therapist, group therapy sessions, and sometimes medication management. These programs allow patients to receive treatment while living at home and attending school or work [4].

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

Intensive outpatient programs are a step up from traditional outpatient programs. These programs are designed for individuals who require more structure and support than traditional outpatient programs can provide. IOPs usually require patients to attend therapy sessions and group sessions several times a week for several hours each day. These programs are ideal for individuals who need more support but do not require 24/7 supervision [4].

Inpatient Programs

Inpatient programs, also known as residential programs, are the most intensive level of care for individuals struggling with self-harm. These programs are designed for patients who require 24/7 supervision and support to manage their symptoms. Inpatient programs typically offer a wide range of services, including therapy, medication management, and medical monitoring. Patients in inpatient programs live at the facility for the duration of their treatment, which can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on their needs [3].

Residential Rehab Programs

Residential rehab is similar to inpatient rehab, but patients live in a residential facility rather than a hospital. Residential rehab typically involves individual and group therapy, as well as medication management and other types of medical care. Patients in residential rehab receive 24-hour supervision and support, making it a good option for those who require a high level of care [4].

Luxury Rehab Programs

Luxury rehab is a high-end option that offers a range of amenities and services in addition to therapy and medical care. Luxury rehab centers often feature private rooms, gourmet meals, and spa services, among other luxuries. Luxury rehab is typically more expensive than other types of rehab, but it may be a good option for those who want to focus solely on their recovery in a comfortable and luxurious environment [3].

Executive Rehab Programs

Executive rehab is designed for busy professionals who need to maintain their work responsibilities while receiving treatment. Executive rehab centers often offer private rooms and a range of amenities, as well as flexible scheduling to accommodate work commitments. Executive rehab may be a good option for those who want to receive treatment without disrupting their careers [5].

It is important to note that the level of care needed for extensive self-harm rehab can vary depending on the individual’s needs and circumstances. Some patients may require a higher level of care initially and then transition to a lower level of care as they make progress in their recovery. Others may start with outpatient treatment and then transition to a higher level of care if necessary [4].

Self-harm residential treatment centers offer a variety of therapies to help individuals overcome extensive self-harm addiction and promote healing. These therapies may include individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and experiential therapy [4].

Individual self-harm therapy involves one-on-one sessions with a therapist where individuals can explore their emotions and experiences related to extensive self-harm. This can include identifying triggers and developing coping skills to deal with those triggers in healthier ways [4].

Group therapy allows individuals to connect with others who are struggling with similar issues. In group therapy, individuals can receive support and encouragement from their peers, learn from other’s experiences, and practice communication skills [4].

Family therapy can also be a valuable part of self-harm treatment, as it can help improve communication and understanding within the family system. Family therapy can also address any underlying family issues that may contribute to self-harm behavior [3].

Experiential therapies, such as art therapy, music therapy, and equine therapy, can provide individuals with alternative ways of expressing themselves and processing their emotions [7]. These therapies can be beneficial for individuals who struggle to express themselves through traditional talk therapy.

In addition to these therapies, self-harm residential treatment centers may also provide education on coping skills, stress management, and healthy lifestyle habits. This can include mindfulness and relaxation techniques, exercise and nutrition guidance, and sleep hygiene education [6].

Overall, the goal of therapy at a self-harm residential treatment center is to help individuals build the skills and resources they need to overcome their addiction to self-harm and live a healthy, fulfilling life.

Self-harm is a complex and serious issue that can have long-lasting physical and psychological effects. 

Seeking professional help at a reputable self-harm rehab center can provide individuals with the necessary tools and support to overcome this addiction. It is important to recognize that self-harm is not a choice, but a coping mechanism that can be unlearned with the right treatment. Through various evidence-based therapies, including individual therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and group therapy, people can learn healthier coping strategies and develop a better understanding of their emotions. 

While recovery from self-harm may be challenging, it is possible with the right treatment and support. By seeking help and committing to the recovery process, individuals can find healing, regain control over their lives, and move towards a brighter future.

  1. Florida Mental Health Treatment Programs. Self-Harm & Self-Injurious Treatment Program. https://www.hhills.com/florida-mental-health-treatment-programs/self-harm-self-injurious-treatment-program/
  2. Treatment and support for self-harm. Mind. https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/treatment-and-support/
  3. Self-harm treatment. Priory Group. https://www.priorygroup.com/mental-health/self-harm-treatment
  4. Cutting and Self-Harm Rehab Centers. American Addiction Centers. https://rehabs.com/cutting-rehab-and-treatment-centers
  5. Self-injury/cutting. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/self-injury/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350956
  6. Self-Harm Treatment Center for Teens.
  7. 5 benefits of teen self-harm addiction treatment. https://www.destinationsforteens.com/destinations-blog/destinations-blog-5-benefits-of-self-harm-addiction-treament/
  8. Is Self-Harm a Form of Addiction? Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/some-assembly-required/202204/is-self-harm-form-addiction    
  9. Is Self-Harm a Form of Addiction? https://www.7cups.com/qa-self-harm-19/why-is-self-harm-so-addictive-179/
  10. Can You Be Addicted to Self-Harm? https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/mental-health/is-self-harm-addictive

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