5 Myths about Self-Harm
Today we’re going to debunk 5 Myths about Self-Harm. If you or someone you love is self-harming, don’t miss this video!
I’m Angela Howard, my passion is to break the stigma of mental illness among fellow Christians. I’m here to help you live a more purposeful life with God, and with one another. Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel so you can get the first updates of new content.
There’s a ton of misinformation about self-harm and we are going shatter some of those myths today.
Myth #1: Self-harm is untreatable. False. We talked about this last week when we went over several different counseling options for treatment. Although self-harm is difficult to stop, there is hope and you can find healing. I’ve personally known people who have struggled for years with this behavior and have found freedom through medications, and counseling.
Myth #2: There’s nothing I can do to help. Wrong. There is tremendous power in the gift of presence. As a friend or family member you can choose to listen well. Be a safe place for your loved one to open up. Lay your confusion and judgement aside and see them as God sees them. Reassure them that it won’t always be this way and that they can find help.
Myth #3: People who self-harm are violent. This couldn’t be further from the truth. They are usually engaging in this behavior in private and are actually struggling with how to cope with their emotions. So, instead of turning their anger outwards, they turn it inwards.
Myth #4: Only women or teen girls self-harm. Both male and female engage in self-harm. The main differences are in the types of self-harm they use. Regardless, it’s an issue for everyone.
Myth #5: Self-harm is an attempt at suicide. Self-harm is actually defined at non-suicidal self-injury. The whole purpose is an effort to feel better, not an effort to die. Those who are self-harming are trying to cope with the intense emotional pain that they are in. Although self-harm is not an attempt at suicide, it does increase your risk for a future attempt, so it should be taken seriously.
If you are struggling with self-harm today, this isn’t something to avoid dealing with. It’s not an issue that will go away with time. The best way to find healing is to seek new healthy coping skills for dealing with your emotions. If someone you love is self-harming don’t overreact or shame them. Let them know that this is a common problem and they can reach out to counselor and find help.
Scripture:
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
Question:
What myths would you add to the list? Comment below, let me know your thoughts, I’d love to hear from you!
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