Written by: THE BALANCE
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Boss, MD
Last updated: January 20, 2026
Fact checked
Quick Summary
  • Self-harm refers to the act of intentionally inflicting injuries on one’s own body.
  • Because of overwhelming emotions, you may feel like you need a distraction or a temporary relief.
  • However, many people resort to cutting, burning, and other ways that inflict injuries as doing so makes them feel they have better control over themselves and their lives.
Reading time: 8 min

Self-harm refers to the act of intentionally inflicting injuries on one’s own body. Because of overwhelming emotions, you may feel like you need a distraction or a temporary relief. In such cases, specialists recommend healthy coping mechanisms. However, many people resort to cutting, burning, and other ways that inflict injuries as doing so makes them feel they have better control over themselves and their lives. For others, it may just be a way of punishment, even if it is something they cannot control.

If you feel like you have similar urges due to any reason, it is best to seek help on time so that the issue does not worsen. Like other similar problems, people do not talk about self-harm widely or share their experiences. The general information regarding the issue is also limited. However, many reports that their issue resembles symptoms of substance abuse disorders to a great extent. Is self-harming an addiction? There is an ongoing debate about this topic, but patterns of addiction do exist in people who injure themselves.

Regardless, getting treatment immediately for self-harm addiction is essential to avoid complications. If you are thinking about getting help, going to therapy or joining a rehabilitation center may be the best option. This article provides information on addiction to self-harm and its treatment.

Rehabilitation centres offer treatment for substance abuse, mental disorders, and many addictions. Contrary to widespread assumption, a person interested in self-harm recovery can also join a facility for therapy. Why get treatment at a center? Rehabs usually offer programs with multiple therapies that you may not be able to get at the same time otherwise. If you have other problems, including physical health conditions, you can get medical care for them simultaneously. Additionally, there is an option for a customised plan too.

Customised programs include the primary course of treatment for recovery with other supporting therapies and any activities of your choice. For instance, you may be able to add swimming, fitness sessions, painting lessons, meditation or music classes to your plan. Most specialists believe holistic therapy and physical activities can increase the chances of recovery.

 An approach that combines primary treatment with the aforementioned supporting therapies may also prevent self-harm in the future by identifying the root cause of your issue. Many people are unaware of what drives them to injure themselves, and they cannot ignore the urges and continue to do so repeatedly. Why is self-harm addicting? There may be different reasons why a person may hurt himself. While some figure it out, others do not, and even if they do, the chances of stopping are low.

If you are unsure about your reason, a combined approach may assist you in understanding your self-harm triggers. Also, you will be able to learn how to control these triggers and their cause so that you stop gradually. Therefore, it is better to get self-harm therapy at rehab as soon as possible rather than wait.

Rehabilitation centres and treatment clinics use multiple strategies in the treatment of self-harm. A specialist usually performs a medical evaluation and recommends therapy based on symptoms, severity, and other potential health conditions such as:

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy assists in recovery from self-harm by identifying the underlying issues and developing skills such as regulating emotions to manage them. You may also learn how to boost your self-esteem and build social skills. In the long-term, these skills will collectively prevent returning to self-harm.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapies allow a person to recognize negative beliefs, behaviours, and thoughts associated with their problem and replace them with healthy ones. CBT for self-harm can also enable you to develop better coping mechanisms if you injure yourself due to distress.

Mindfulness-based Therapies

Mindfulness-based therapies improve general well-being by changing a person’s self-perception and understanding. Therefore, it will help you harm yourself due to a negative self-image.

Self-harm Support Groups

Joining a support group is generally recommended for people struggling to recover from their addictions. The fundamental purpose of a group is to connect people suffering from the same problem. This way, they have a platform to discuss their mutual concerns and learn from each other’s experiences. Additionally, the community healing experience can encourage people to stick to their treatments and stay motivated.

Medications

There are no standard medicines for the treatment of self-harm. However, if a person is diagnosed with mental illnesses, including anxiety and depression, a healthcare provider may suggest using medication such as antidepressants. Mental conditions may be one of the underlying issues for self-harm. So, treating them can effectively stop a person from hurting himself.

Wondering how to help with self-harm? There are multiple ways you can help a family member or a friend in recovering from self-harm. Usually, most people require emotional support to get professional help and continue the treatment. In addition, to support, you can also assist your loved one in the following ways:

Find a Support Group

Support groups provide a space where people can discuss their issues without judgement. While you can also talk to your loved ones when needed, a group may help them express their thoughts and feelings freely. As other group members have the same problem, they may be able to help with an issue you do not understand very well.

Limit Internet Usage

Multiple online spaces glamorise self-harm, and some websites may also provide information on different methods to inflict injury. Viewing such content may be very triggering for a person who struggles with self-harm. So, it is better to help your friend or relative by restricting time spent on the internet.

Joining An Activity

Physical activities like sports, swimming, or dancing can help people who struggle to express their emotions. If your loved one has similar problems, consider joining a dance class or planning a daily activity together.

Self-harm is a serious issue and requires medical attention to avoid further complications. Any delay can increase the possibility of a severe injury and may be life-threatening. Therefore, it is better to know the symptoms of self-harm, such as:

  • Inability to focus
  • Find it hard to resist the urge to self-harm
  • Viewing self-injury as a punishment
  • Anxiety and Depression
  • Feeling numb
  • Getting agitated and irritated easily
  • Hiding self-harm scars or burns
  • Self-isolation
  • Relationship problems
  • Drug abuse
  • Changes in eating habits

If you or a loved one has any of the signs mentioned above, look for a rehab or a treatment clinic immediately.

FAQs

What happens in a day at a rehab?
There is no fixed schedule at a rehabilitation center for all people. Usually, a day at rehab will include your primary treatment and any additional therapies. After that, you will have free time to swim, exercise, or use other facilities at the center. Also, if you join any activities like swimming, painting, or mountain climbing, you will receive information about the timings and the days for them at the start of your treatment.
What if I have been to rehab before?
It is not a problem to join a rehabilitation center more than once. Remember, a facility will always provide resources to help you overcome your issues. Since relapsing is a common issue in people, it is pretty normal to return to rehab for treatment.
What should I take with me to rehab?
Most rehabilitation centres have rules for the things a person can bring. Necessities including clothes and toiletries are allowed at facilities. However, you may not be able to take your laptop or cellphones as they can interfere with the treatment. For clarification, you may ask your chosen rehab about their policy.
Can I continue therapy after recovery?
Therapy after recovery is beneficial and reduces the likelihood of returning to self-harm. If you think you have tendencies to go back to injuring yourself even after getting treatment, it is better to continue therapy. Additionally, if you relapsed, your doctor may recommend you to stay at the rehab or get outpatient treatment after you recover.
How much would self-harm treatment cost?
The price of treatment for addiction varies based on the types of treatment you require and their duration. For instance, people who self-harm sometimes also need physical medical care for their injuries. Similarly, you will need different treatment if you have other problems, such as substance abuse. In addition, the place you choose to get treatment from also matters. The price is likely higher if you go for a luxury rehabilitation center for self-harm UK or opt for facilities like spas and a gym. Please inquire about fees before joining a particular treatment facility to ensure it is affordable. Remember, your primary concern should be getting treatment for your addiction.
Do treatment plans differ based on types of self-harm?
Your treatment will depend on many factors, including underlying issues, how long you have been injuring yourself, and any related conditions. The way you self-harm typically does not matter. However, if you hurt yourself by using drugs, your plan will also include treatment for substance abuse.

The Article

+

About This Article

+

Do you need help?

Sister Topics

Adrenaline Addiction Behavioral Behavioral Addiction Treatment Crypto Addiction Dopamine Addiction Gambling Addiction Help Gambling Addiction Treatment Gaming Addiction Help Help with Food Addiction How To Get Rid Of Porn Addiction How to Stop a Shopping Addiction Is Self-Harming an Addiction Phone & Media Addiction Porn Addiction Symptoms Porn Addiction Treatment Shopping Addiction Social Media Addiction Statistics Work Addiction Workaholics Treatment