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    A 24 hour, province-wide youth help line offering one-on-one support and information to help deal with violence or crime.

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    In Surrey, call if you feel upset or confused, or you just want to talk to someone. The Crisis Centre is open 24 hours a day.

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Self-harm

Everyone has different ways to deal with hard situations, thoughts, or feelings.

What is self-harm?

Self-harm, or self-injury, involves the deliberate act of physically harming oneself.

There are many forms of self-harm, including cutting or burning skin, hitting oneself, or punching things. Sometimes it is less obvious, such as reckless driving, binge drinking, drug abuse, and unsafe sex.

While self-harm can result in serious injuries, a person who self-harms is not trying to commit suicide.  

Why might someone self-harm?

There are a number of reasons a person may self-harm.

Examples of these reasons include:

  • To cope with anxiety or depression.
  • As “punishment” to themselves.
  • As a response to loss or trauma.
  • To turn emotional pain into physical pain.
  • To feel better.
  • To feel something; not just emptiness or numbness.

"I know that we all deal with things in different ways but I really don’t understand why my friend chooses to harm themselves..."

"They say that it’s just their way of dealing but I feel like I should be able to do something to help them.

This is more than just me being there to listen to them vent and I knew that I needed to talk to someone about this. It was to help not only my friend, but also to help me.

That’s why I chose to talk to someone who could help."

What are the signs of self-harm?

Think someone you know is self-harming? Here's what to look for:

  • Unexplained injuries, bruises, cuts, or scars.
  • Wears long sleeves or pants, even when the weather doesn’t require it.
  • Low self-esteem.
  • Problems with relationships.
  • Problems handling or expressing emotions.

How can I help?

You can help a friend or family member who is self-harming.

Read information to help you and other family members manage and understand mental health and substance use problems. By speaking to a trusted adult, you can help get the person the help they need.

  • Show them concern for their well-being.
  • Celebrate any little changes they make.
  • Support them, even if they try to hide their behaviour.
  • Talk to a trusted adult. It's important you get the support you need.

Want to know more?

  • Canadian Mental Health Association

    Promotes mental health for all, and supports the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illness.

    cmha.ca

  • Mind Check

    To help youth check how they are feeling and quickly connect with mental health resources and support.

    mindcheck.ca

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If you’ve seen or heard something, let us know.

Is someone or something bothering you at school? We're here to listen and help.

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