Why do people self harm?

Some people who self-harm have very often have had very difficult or painful experiences or relationships. These may include:

* Bullying or discrimination
* Losing someone close to them such as a parent, brother, sister or friend
* Lack of love and affection or neglect by parents or carers
* Physical or sexual abuse
* A serious illness that affects the way they feel about themselves.

Other people may start to self-harm as a way of dealing with the problems and pressures of everyday life. Pressure can come from family, work, relationships, school and peer groups to conform or to perform well (for example in performing well at work/school). Some people can feel angry, frustrated or bad about themselves if they cannot live up to other people’s expectations.

People who self-harm may have low self-esteem. For some this is linked to poor body image, eating disorders, or drug misuse. Understanding why a person self-harms involves knowing as much as possible about their lives and lifestyles.

Peer pressures may occasionally be the most important reason for self-harm. People may find themselves among friends or other groups who self-harm and may be encouraged or pressured to do the same.

Find out more about self-harming

* How common is self-harming?
* Why it can be difficult asking for help?
* Understanding people who self-harm
* Getting help and supporting others