People often try to keep self-harm a secret because of shame or fear of discovery. Research has suggested that self-harm is most common among 15-19 year olds, and those suffering from anxiety and depression. Self-harm is an expression of personal distress, rather than an illness, although it can be linked to other mental health conditions such as depression. Read more about where to get help if you self-harm
You can also contact Breathing Space or call the Samaritans on 116 123 for support. If you are self-harming, you should see your GP for help. It is a way of expressing deep emotional feelings such as low self-esteem, or a way of coping with traumatic events, such as the death of a loved one. Self-harm is when somebody intentionally damages or injures their body.
