Treatment of Self-injury

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A G.P. will usually refer a person wanting help for repeated self- injury to a physiatrist or a psychotherapist for an assessment. There are few clinical therapists specialising in self-injury, so referral is often to therapists who deal with abuse or whose expertise is in eating disorders. However provision is patchy and a named consultant is not always identified for the management of self-injury.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is ideally used to explore feelings before the individual, self injures with the aim of finding other channels for the build up of feelings, emotions and tensions. The causes of low self- esteem are explored.

Therapy aims to be non- judgemental and self- harm may be tolerated, so the focus is on exploring the whole situation.

Psychotherapy may be offered to explore any history of sexual, physical or mental abuse. The aim will also be to provide compassionate medical care for wounds due to self- injury. Also advice on other outlets for the build up of tension and on keeping safe if self- injuring is continuing.

Successful treatment depends on teaching the individual new ways of coping with emotions and feelings. People self- injure for all sorts of reasons, therefore a large part of recovery involves helping to identify the individual triggers.

Hospitalisation is only used as a last resort if the individual is at a risk of severe self- injury or suicide.

Self Help groups can be helpful, as is talking to anyone who wishes to help explore feelings and emotions in a non-judgemental way.