Self-Injury as a Destructive Coping Strategy
Posted on: September 3rd, 2013
When exposed to stress, people manage the pressure by using a multitude of coping strategies. Broadly defined, coping strategies are actions or thoughts elicited as a response to an unexpected, difficult or painful situation. Positive coping strategies such as hard work to resolve the issue or approaching the problem in a different way are productive and useful tools. However, sometimes individuals turn to destructive coping strategies, including self-injury. Self-injury can include cutting, burning, pinching, breaking bones, hitting one’s head, or even pulling out hair. The behavior is impulsive and followed by a sense of calm. Often, people that engage in self-harm claim they feel no pain at all even though they are causing physical injury to themselves.
There are signs to watch out for. People who are self-injuring might always keep sharp objects nearby. Their injuries are often on their arms, legs or torso, so to cover the scars or wounds, they will wear long sleeves or pants regardless of the season. Sufferers seem to be injured frequently and have many small “accidents.” They often prefer to be alone.
Although self-injury is not an attempt at suicide, the physical effects are quite serious. Wounds can get infected, and there can be permanent scarring. The injuries can lead to hospitalization or even unintended death. After inflicting the self-injury, a person tends to feel shame and his or her self-esteem goes down. Therefore, the self-destructive coping strategy can exacerbate emotional issues already in place, such as depression, and sometimes lead to suicidal tendencies.
Treating patients that self-injure has a physical and emotional component. Psychotherapy can address the foundations of the behavior. Medical treatment is necessary for the physical injuries. If you suspect that someone you know self-injures or engages in other destructive coping responses, contact Maureen Kritzer-Lange Psychotherapy to discuss a treatment plan.
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