Self Harm
This is a common problem amongst students and young people in general. Most harm themselves by cutting or burning. There are many reasons for harming one’s self
- Self harm isn’t attention seeking- it’s normally a private matter.
- Self harm is often a coping strategy providing control, release and endorphin rush.
- Self injury is rarely attempted suicide, although those who self harm are more at risk of suicide than the general population.
- Self injury is not a sign of madness but distress. It’s a way of coping with life.
If you have just found out that someone you know self-harms, don’t criticise him/her. Talk to him/her, try to understand what’s going on. However, recognise your own limitations and encourage them to seek help from a more experienced person. Stopping self-harm should not be a target in itself- it’s a useful coping method for many people. Targeting the underlying problems is always the first step.
Getting Help
Student Health
Tel: 0117 330 2720
Student Counselling
1A Priory Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1TX
Tel: 0117 954 6655
Nightline
Tel: 0117 9 266 266
For more information
- SIARI (self-injury and related issues)
- MIND
- Self-Injury.net
- UBU Factsheet
