Non-Suicidal Self Harm

Modified on Fri, 13 Dec at 11:15 AM

Some materials contained in this article may be distressing. For 24-hour telephone crisis support call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Overview

Self-harm occurs when people deliberately hurt their bodies. The most common type of self-harm among is cutting. Other types include burning the skin until it marks or bleeds, picking at wounds or scars, self-hitting and pulling hair out by the roots.

At the more extreme end of the spectrum, self-harm can include breaking bones, hanging and deliberately overdosing on medication. There are other deliberate behaviours that can be harmful to one’s health that are not normally included in the definition of self-harm. These include self-starving, binge drinking, smoking or other drug use and dangerous driving.

If you are injuring yourself even in minor ways, or have thought about self-harming it is a good idea to reach out to someone you trust for help. It is important to take all talk of self-harm seriously and to always reach out for help.

This document includes advice on assisting a person who is injuring themselves, but is not
suicidal. It also includes advice on when you should seek professional medical help for a
person who has severely injured themselves and is at risk of more serious harm or accidental
death, regardless of intent.

MHFA Self Injury Guidelines

Young people and self harm

Orygen and Headspace have developed resources that debunk various myths around self harm and suicide prevention. These resources are designed with young people in mind but some of the information can also apply to adults.

Orygen Self Harm Mythbuster

Headspace Self Harm Mythbuster

Headspace has produced a video sharing one young persons story about their experience with self-harm.

Headspace Youth Story

Headspace Self-Harm Factsheet

Resources for Health Professionals

These resources are designed for health professionals but can be helpful for anyone looking for more information about, or develop their understanding of non-suicidal self harm.