Self-harm, that is, as the name implies, intentional harm to one’s body, including cutting, burning, scratching, and starving oneself, is an extremely prevalent and urgent issue that today’s young people face. Each year, 1 out of 5  girls and 1 in 7 boys engage in self-harm, and 90 percent of those involved in self-harm are in their pre-teen and teenage years. Self-harm typically can become addictive, thus 50 percent of those who start at the age of 14 struggle with self-harm into their late teens and twenties. Even as a teenager in a private Christian school, over 20 people I know, myself included, have engaged in self-harm in one form or another.  But why is this horrible thing so prevalent today?

 

There are a few reasons. First and (probably) foremost, it is a fad. Having engaged in it myself, I can attest to the fact that, if no one else I knew had introduced it to me, I never would have done it. People mimic others, and there is no avoiding it. Kids and teens who see their friends using self-harm as a means of coping with the stresses and pains of life will often try it too. Self-harm, along with many drugs, typically makes a downward progression in its severity. One or two light cuts may do the trick the first time, but soon enough, numerous deep cuts will be necessary to get the same effect.

 

Second, bullying/cyberbullying has increased exponentially over the recent years, which obviously increases the amount of depressed victimized kids out there with no means to relieve themselves of their pains. Thus, as is mentioned above, kids see their friends doing certain things and are bound to mimic.

 

Third, mental illness is a major culprit for self-harm causes. Clinical depression, the most commonly diagnosed mental illness, is also the most likely to cause self-harm.  Mental illness, along with any other bodily illness, has certain side effects and treatments, and a common self induced “treatment” is self-harm. There are other reasons, but over all, these seem to be most prevalent.

 

So, how is one to know that their child, friend, sibling, etc. is engaging in such activities? First, your flags must be up. If you see cuts in an abnormal fashion, multiple abrasions, or burns on one’s body, or if one is regularly not eating, you ought to pay attention. Likewise, wearing long sleeves or pants (especially when it is hot outside) can be an indicator that something is awry and in need of covering up. Of course, this is not always the case, but it can be an indicator.  Other things that could tip one off are improbable explanations to bodily wounds (for instance, if someone claims that their wounds were the product of them having “fallen on rocks” or “being scratched by a cat,” when this is obviously not the case, one ought to take note), seclusion from friends and family, and any other notably strange behavior. If you are suspicious, ask the suspect if they have engaged in self-harm. Often times, those involved in self-harm are waiting for someone to extend a hand of help to them. If they deny it, and you are still suspicious, pay close attention to their body, especially wrists, ankles, thighs, etc. If you can, check their body.

 

If it can be concluded, either by confession or by other evidence,  that one is engaging in self-harm, contact their parents, and if you are their parents, pray with them. Encourage them with Scriptures such as Psalms 116 and James 1:2-4, and inquire why they engaged in such activities. The more you know about why they did/do it, they more effectively it can be prevented. Another option is counseling. Though this is not for everyone, counseling can be a great resource for those in need of help. Personally, my counselor helped me through so many things I might not have been able to overcome on my own.

 

If you are involved in self-harm, tell someone. Pray that God will release you from this sin, and learn to love yourself: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 

 

Self-harm is a seriously urgent issue today. Be aware and live with your eyes open.

Finally, stay strong, you guys.

In Christ,

Lucas.