Counselling for Self-harm in Southampton

WHAT CAUSES SELF HARM?

Self-harm is when we intentionally hurt or injure our bodies to cope with or express overwhelming internal distress. An estimated 13% of young people in the UK attempt to hurt themselves on purpose between the ages of 11 and 16*, but because of the secretive nature of the act, the actual figure could be much higher. 

Triggers of self-harm can be related to anxiety and/or depression as well as relationship issues, sexual abuse, unemployment, isolation, guilt, feeling powerless and feeling as though people aren’t listening to us. 

For someone who has never experienced self-harm, it can be difficult to understand why you’d want to hurt yourself. Sufferers explain it as a release for the overwhelming distress they have inside. It can help sufferers feel more in control of their pain or alternatively help them feel something other than emotional numbness. Self-harm is a very dangerous and a potentially life-threatening coping mechanism, which may work in the moment to release pain but has long term negative effects. 

COUNSELLING FOR SELF HARM

Once self-harming becomes a habit, it can be difficult to stop without support. Counselling will help break down old patterns of behaviour and reinforce alternative and more positive coping mechanisms. Your counsellor can also support you in identifying the core of the issue that is causing you to self-harm and help you address this in a safe and non-judgemental space. Addressing and resolving the underlying causes will eradicate your compulsion to self-harm.

Your counsellor will help you build your self-esteem, challenge any limiting self-beliefs and confront your negative self-talk. As a result, you will gain control over your emotions, enabling you to live a more positive and satisfying life. 

*Source SelfharmUK