Self-harm is a complex and worrying phenomenon that affects people of all ages, but is most frequently observed in young people. This behavior, which can manifest itself in various ways, such as cuts on the skin, burns, self-inflicted blows, among others, is usually an indicator of deep emotional discomfort and a way of coping with internal problems. Although self-harm can be disconcerting to outsiders, it is important to understand the underlying reasons that lead young people to self-harm.
Factors that contribute to self-harm. self-harm in young people
Self-harm can be the result of a complex interaction of biological, psychological and social factors that affect young people. Below are some of the factors that may contribute to a young person turning to self-harm as a coping mechanism:
1. Unresolved emotional problems
One of the most significant factors that can lead a young person to self-harm is unresolved emotional problems. Young people can experience a wide range of intense and painful emotions, such as depression, anxiety, anger, loneliness or guilt, which can be overwhelming to deal with. The lack of skills to regulate these emotions and the absence of adequate emotional support can lead the young person to resort to self-harm as a way to temporarily relieve their emotional discomfort.
2. Emotional trauma
Emotional trauma, such as physical, sexual or emotional abuse, neglect, bullying or any traumatic experience, can leave psychological consequences in young people. Self-harm can be a way to express and process the emotional pain associated with trauma. Additionally, self-injury can offer a sense of control over one's body in an attempt to compensate for the feeling of helplessness related to past trauma.
3. Social pressure and perfectionism
Young people are exposed to great social pressure to meet certain standards of beauty, success and behavior. Perfectionism and self-demand can generate high levels of stress and anxiety in young people, which in turn can lead to self-harm as a form of escape or self-compensation for not meeting externally imposed expectations.
4. Relationship problems and social isolation
Difficulties in interpersonal relationships, such as family conflicts, friendship problems, breakups or bullying, can contribute to a young person resorting to self-harm as a way of managing emotional pain derived from those negative experiences. Social isolation can also play an important role, as a lack of support and emotional connection with others can increase feelings of loneliness and helplessness.
Possible warning signs
It is It is essential that parents, educators and mental health professionals be alert to possible warning signs that may indicate that a young person is experiencing emotional difficulties and resorting to self-harm as a coping mechanism. Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Cuts, burns, bumps, or other self-inflicted injuries to the young person's body.
- The young person avoids showing certain parts of his or her body. body or wear clothing that completely covers your skin, even in hot weather.
- Sudden changes in mood, such as irritability, extreme sadness, or anxiety.
- Problems regulating intense emotions and appropriately express their feelings.
- Attempts to hide emotions or behaviors related to self-harm.
Address and treatment of self-harm in young people
Addressing self-harm in young people requires a compassionate, empathetic and multidisciplinary approach that addresses both the emotional aspects and the underlying factors that may be contributing to self-harming behavior. Some treatment strategies and approaches that may be helpful include:
1. Appropriate evaluation and diagnosis
It is essential that a mental health professional perform a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying causes of self-harm in the young person. This may involve identifying possible mental disorders, unresolved trauma, relationship problems, or other factors that may be contributing to self-injurious behavior.
2. Individual and family therapy
Individual therapy, focused on providing young people with tools to manage their emotions in a healthy way and develop more adaptive coping strategies, can be beneficial in the treatment of self-harm. Family therapy may also be helpful in addressing dysfunctional family dynamics that may be contributing to the youth's distress.
3. Focus on coping skills
Teaching young people effective coping skills and alternatives to self-harm, such as relaxation, meditation, problem solving or assertive communication, can help reduce the need to resort to self-injury as an emotional release mechanism.
4. Pharmacological treatment
In some cases, it may be necessary to resort to psychotropic medication, such as antidepressants or anxiolytics, to treat underlying mental disorders that may be contributing to self-harm in the young person. It is important that the prescription and supervision of medications be carried out by a trained health professional.
5. Social support and support networks
Providing young people with a strong social support system, including family, friends, health professionals and other community resources, can be essential in the recovery process. The feeling of belonging and emotional connection with others can contribute to reducing the feeling of loneliness and helplessness that underlies self-harm.
Conclusion
Self-harm in young people is a complex phenomenon that requires a deep understanding of its underlying causes and mechanisms. Young people who self-harm often experience deep emotional distress and turn to self-harm as a way of coping with difficult-to-manage internal problems. It is essential to address this behavior in a compassionate, empathetic and multidisciplinary way, providing the young person with the support and tools necessary to heal emotionally and develop healthy coping strategies.