Self Harm Online Support Group

Many see self harm as a coping mechanism to relieve emotional pain or discomfort. Nevertheless, there are many healthy alternatives to self-harm.

What is Self Harm?

Self-harm is an act of harming oneself physically on purpose. Usually, people use self-harm to release painful emotions, not as a suicide attempt. But, self-harm methods such as cutting, scratching, burning, or hitting oneself is never a permanent solution to emotional comfort

Factors that may increase self-harm behavior includes:

  • A crisis or recent difficult life event (e.g. death of a loved one, relationship breakdown, difficulties at home or school, recent abuse or violence)

  • Depression, anxiety or other mental health issues

  • Alcohol or substance abuse

  • Trauma or abuse in childhood

  • Physical illness or disability

People might self-harm to process their negative feelings, develop a sense of control over their lives or punish themselves for things they think they’ve done wrong. However, everyone is different. People who practice self-harm are recommended to seek out help with medical professionals.

How Support Groups Can Help?

Support groups are safe spaces structured to allow participants to share personal experiences, feelings, coping strategies and information about symptoms and treatments. The discussions often are facilitated by an experienced leader or a medical professional. 

Feeling isolated or lonely might be a vicious cycle that leads to worsening self-harm symptoms. Support groups can allow us to make connections, providing tangible benefits to people experiencing mental health issues. 

Benefits of participating in support groups can include:

  • Reducing feelings of loneliness, isolation and stigma resulted in self-harm

  • Getting practical advice or information about treatment options

  • Reducing distress, depression, anxiety or urges to self-harm

  • Talking openly and honestly about your feelings

  • Gaining a sense of empowerment, control or hope

  • Learning about health, economic or social resources

Benefits of online support groups can include:

  • Faster time to get help, skipping appointment wait time

  • More frequent or flexible participation

  • A cost effective way to see a licensed mental health professional

  • A degree of privacy or anonymity comparing to local community support groups

  • Opportunities for people in areas with no face-to-face support groups

You are not alone. Herd is ready to support you.