Self-harm

What is Self-Harm?

Self-harm refers to behaviours where a person intentionally injures or harms their own body as a way of coping with intense emotional distress. Common forms of self-harm include cutting, scratching, burning or hitting oneself. For many people, self-harm is not an attempt to end their life. Instead, it may be used as a way to manage overwhelming emotions, release tension, or cope with feelings such as sadness, anger, anxiety or numbness.

Self-harm can affect both adults and young people. In some cases, we have noticed that individuals may struggle to explain why they engage in self-harm, but it is often linked to underlying emotional difficulties, trauma, relationship challenges or mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety.

While self-harm may provide temporary relief, it does not address the underlying causes of distress and can lead to further emotional and physical difficulties over time. Importantly, self-harm is a sign that someone is struggling and in need of support. In our clinic, we’ve supported people with learning healthier ways to manage difficult emotions and overcome the urge to harm themselves.

Signs of Self-Harm

Signs of self-harm can vary, but may include:

• Unexplained cuts, bruises, burns or scars
• Covering up parts of the body even in warm weather
• Spending long periods alone, particularly in private spaces such as bathrooms or bedrooms
• Keeping sharp objects or items that could be used to self-harm
• Expressing feelings of emotional pain, emptiness or distress
• Difficulty coping with strong emotions such as anger, sadness or anxiety
• Withdrawal from friends, family or usual activities
• Feelings of shame, guilt or secrecy around injuries

In children and young people, self-harm may also appear alongside sudden changes in behaviour, mood or social withdrawal.

Private Treatment for Self-Harm in London and the UK

At London Psychiatry Clinic, we offer specialist assessment and support for individuals experiencing self-harm. Our experienced psychiatrists and therapists understand that self-harm often reflects deeper emotional distress and requires compassionate, non-judgemental care. Our approach focuses on understanding the underlying factors contributing to self-harm and supporting individuals to develop safer and more effective coping strategies.

Depending on your needs, treatment may include:

• Psychoeducation to understand self-harm and emotional regulation
• Talking therapy to explore emotional difficulties and develop healthier coping strategies
• Medication, where appropriate, to support associated conditions such as depression or anxiety
• Lifestyle and wellbeing strategies to strengthen emotional resilience and support recovery

Our team works collaboratively to develop a personalised treatment plan that supports both immediate safety and long-term wellbeing. As well as providing support in our clinic in London, we also offer online therapy so you can access treatment from the comfort of your home.

Find the best kind of treatment for Self-Harm. 

If you or your child may be struggling with self-harm, our team is here to help. Speak with us today to explore assessment and treatment options.