If you are in danger now, contact emergency services or a crisis line immediately.
- Korea
- 109 (suicide prevention), 1577-0199 (mental health crisis)
- US
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- UK/Ireland
- Samaritans 116 123
- Emergency
- Local emergency number
Overview
Self-harm is deliberately injuring oneself; repeated injury without suicidal intent is non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), listed in DSM-5-TR for further study. It is often a way to cope with overwhelming emotions, not attention-seeking, but it is linked to later suicide risk (Hawton et al., 2012). Signs include unexplained injuries and withdrawal. Respond calmly, prioritise safety over secrecy, and connect the person with professional help. NICE NG225 (2022) recommends respectful psychosocial assessment and tailored psychological therapy. See also Papageno effect.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are concerned, please consult a qualified health professional.
Frequently asked questions
- Is it attention-seeking?
- Usually it is a way to cope with pain.
References
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2022). Self-harm: assessment, management and preventing recurrence (NG225).
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). DSM-5-TR (Nonsuicidal self-injury, conditions for further study).
- Hawton, K., Saunders, K. E. A., & O’Connor, R. C. (2012). Self-harm and suicide in adolescents. The Lancet, 379(9834), 2373–2382.
- 보건복지부·한국생명존중희망재단. 자살예방 상담 안내.