Psyche logo

Cut it Out! Potential Origins of Self-Harm

This piece focuses on the broad range of factors that play into the specific initiations of different individuals’ episodes of self-induced injury. I’ve dealt with this addiction for many years and now I utilize my perspective to support others.

By zoe frenchmanPublished 2 years ago 5 min read
2

Self-injury, self-harm, self-mutilation, whatever you want to call it, is a serious and addictive coping mechanism that people typically use to feel pain after a period of numbness, because they feel like they deserve to feel that pain, or simply as a means of coping with their struggles. I personally have a plethora of experience with self-harm. The intensity of the triggers can certainly ebb and flow. Sometimes I have moments of severe inclination to cause myself pain in some way. Sometimes I feel content and as if there’s no valid reason to harm myself. Sometimes I’m on the very edge of the cliff, and all I need is the most miniscule phrase or occurrence to push me into a mental hell encompassed with uncertainty.

Why do people choose to cause themselves physical pain? The number of people who simply cannot comprehend the predilection to self-harm is astounding and ultimately dangerous. A fundamental understanding of the factors that contribute to the precipitation of these episodes is essential in being able to genuinely assist someone who struggles. Without any ounce of comprehension of this malady, it is nearly impossible to truly help someone who possesses it. There is simply no one answer to the broad question of why. However, I will be spending the time here to educate anyone and everyone about the origins, contributions, signs, symptoms, and effects of this type of mentality.

Cutting, burning, restricting anything to the point of detriment or a mental consumption of that restriction, bingeing, purging, and scratching are all examples of forms of self-injury. Much of the time, loved ones of people who struggle with self-harm are afraid to speak up about their concerns with professionals out of fear of betrayal or potential responses of the person. Even despite the hesitation, any self-injurious behaviors are too significant of an issue to neglect. Yes, the person who engages in these behaviors will most likely have an adverse reaction to receiving help. But, why? Well, in simple terms, an overwhelmingly large quantity of individuals who suffer from almost any form of addiction are acutely hesitant to abolish, or sometimes to merely fade out their addiction.

A person who’s addicted to either substances or behaviors usually becomes comfortably familiar with their addiction. Self-harm is an addiction. The sensation of feeling that physical pain becomes an insatiable perception. I understand that lacking the illness that causes one to harm themselves can make it difficult to understand the mere notion of that desire. It can be even more strenuous for those who have loved ones who are severely impacted by their illness. I understand the perspective of my loved ones—which is vital to maintaining a well-rounded mindset and intellect. While I’m not directly in their shoes, I can empathize with their fears of saying the wrong thing, triggering me, what I may do to myself when I’m emotional, my outbursts or episodes altogether, and a variety of other worries. I believe it is essential for both parties to create a conducive, comfortable, and understanding environment, while still maintaining boundaries and firmness, in support of everyone’s wellbeing. Having an in-depth and productive conversation about communication, triggers, treatment, boundaries, balance, and the specific relationship and its needs can only be advantageous.

Whether you’re reading this as a person who struggles with this addiction, a loved one or acquaintance of someone who battles with this, or someone who hasn’t been affected by this disease whatsoever, gradually gaining a fresh perspective on this concept can be exponentially beneficial. Knowledge is power. That is a general—and truly wise—statement that most definitely applies to the whole idea of self-harm. One does not need to have been directly impacted by it to empathize with these cognitive distortions. Empathy, as well as a basic understanding of this type of mentality, will inevitably enhance any person’s intelligence and ability to support those who struggle and assist with their specific needs.

The particular actions or thought processes of those who battle with this debilitating affliction can widely vary per person. Sometimes people don’t fully understand why they’re even harming themselves. Sometimes people initiate this issue at a young age for a reason that they cannot recall, and the addictive habit continues throughout their life. The most common contributions that may lead one to injure themselves are generally overwhelming, numbing, painful, depressing, and/or abusive factors within their life. Specifically, the difficulties can come from financial struggles, abusive relationship(s), trauma itself or flashbacks from trauma, the death of a loved one, issues with gender identity or sexuality, increased stress, pressures at school or work, pressures from family, a physical illness of themselves or a loved one, loss of a job, the abandonment of a friend, a breakup, or generally having a range of mental health disorders that frequently clash with one another.

All in all, self-harm is a taboo topic of conversation for many people, and the sensitive nature of this important discussion needs to be abandoned entirely. It is beyond crucial to openly and honestly discuss your particular barriers and stressors. Regardless of your particular perspective on this matter, whether you’ve been remotely engrossed in this battle or not, educating yourself about it will only benefit you. A broad spectrum of contributing factors play into the causes of these episodes. And that is exactly why having productive and authentic discussions about the specific roots of this mental toil is paramount towards any improvement.

disorder
2

About the Creator

zoe frenchman

I’m Zoe, I’m 21, and I’m an aspiring writer, filmmaker, musician, & mental health advocate. I’m a poet and content writer currently enrolled in the Creative Writing BFA program at Full Sail U!

LinkTree (all social and professional links)

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2024 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.