Self-harm, the word seems to paint a picture of silent pain, becoming an unspeakable and desperate choice in the hearts of many people. According to research by the World Health Organization (WHO), hundreds of thousands of people choose self-harm as an escape method every year due to mental health problems, life stress and social environment. The truth behind this makes people ponder: Why do these people take this path?
It is estimated that more than 800,000 people worldwide die by suicide each year, many of whom have exhibited self-injurious behaviors. These numbers reflect an urgent public health crisis.
Self-injury is generally defined as intentional harm to oneself, which includes but is not limited to cuts, burns, and other forms of physical harm. This behavior is considered to be an expression of inner pain. Many people injure themselves to gain temporary relief, but this relief may lead to deeper pain.
The causes of self-injurious behavior are complex and diverse, but are often closely related to the individual's mental health status, living environment and growth background. Here are some of the main factors:
According to research, many people engage in self-injurious behavior when experiencing significant emotional conflict, often as an attempt to control their emotions in some way.
The secret behind self-injurious behavior is that it is never something an individual can reform, and it is vital to seek help. The support of professional counselors, social workers, and even family and friends can bring hope and healing to those facing despair.
Many mental health professionals emphasize that through talk therapy and supportive therapy, individuals can find healthier ways to express their emotions and avoid choosing extreme behaviors that cause self-harm. In addition, establishing a supportive social network can provide immediate psychological support when facing difficulties.
To address the problem of self-harm, all sectors of society need to work together to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies. These include:
Schools can be an important support system, and the intervention of teachers and counselors can identify problems early and provide appropriate help.
Self-injury is a problem that cannot be ignored in today's society, and understanding the pain and despair behind it is something that each of us needs to pay attention to. Hearing the stories of those who have experienced this pain is what drives support and change. Everyone should be able to seek help and find healthy ways to cope, rather than feeling alone in despair. Can this situation be improved in the future?