Self-harm: common myths and misconceptions

There are several common myths and misconceptions surrounding self-harm, including the following.

1) Self-harm is a suicide attempt

This is not always true. People self-harm for many different reasons. Research with people who self-harm has suggested that people often harm themselves as a way of getting relief from particularly distressing emotions or overwhelming situations, while other people may self-harm to communicate distress.

Self-harm may or may not involve suicidal intent, but all people who self-harm should be treated with compassion.

2) Self-harm is just attention seeking

Self-harm is often a private and hidden behaviour. People who do seek help following self-harm are often in crisis, and should be treated with compassion and respect.

3) Talking about suicide and self-harm increases the risk of suicide and self-harm

Talking about suicide and suicidal thoughts will not plant an idea that was not there before. Many people who are contemplating suicide or who self-harm are relieved to be able to talk about it to an understanding listener.

4) Self-harm behaviour should be stopped immediately

Although an ideal goal might be to stop self-harming behaviour completely, this may be a long process, in particular if someone has used self-harm to help manage distress.

Reduction of self-harm and/or use of less dangerous or damaging methods might be appropriate as an initial step to eventually stopping self-harm. This is shown in the following quote by a clinician, taken from the Truth Hurts report into self-harm among young people.

“The most important thing is not to tell people to stop, but to listen to them, find out what they need to stop and help them find ways of achieving that. This way, people heal in their own time.”