Self harm is a way of expressing very deep distress. The term ‘Self-harm’ is very broad and could refer to different forms of self inflicted injury. People may hurt, injure or poison themselves by scratching, cutting or burning themselves, by hitting themselves against objects, taking a drug overdose, or swallowing or putting other things inside themselves. It may also include less obvious forms, such as unnecessary risks, staying in an abusive relationship, developing an eating problem (such as bulimia or anorexia), or being addicted to alcohol & drugs. Simply not looking after or neglecting emotional needs could be classed as self harm. It may or may not be linked with Mental Health Issues.
However, Stepping Out can help. We have highly qualified staff backed up by years of experience to help manage self harm cases and produce positive outcomes. We have, in the past, supported people who self harm, have suicidal tendencies as well as challenging behaviour.
How Do We Help?
Stepping Out understand the steps needed in order to combat the issue of self harm. Below is our 4-point plan on how to overcome the triggers of self harm:
Identifying & Reducing Stress
Stress levels can be a huge trigger for self harm. We can help identify sources of stress, and together with the service user, plan ways of reducing or avoiding it.
Building Self-esteem
A low self-esteem can result in self harm. Feeling useless, unloved or unnoticed can trigger emotional distress. Our caring staff can provide counselling sessions, social activities, community access and more. By socialising and participating in their support, service users can overcome self harm.
24 Hour support
Our semi independent living projects are staffed for 24 hours a day, offering unlimited support within the house. Our projects are homely and facilitate for a maximum of 5 service users. A safe, supportive setting is essential when facing self harm.
Knowing The Risks
We educate service users on the risks of self harm, self neglect, unneccessary risks, and so forth. By understanding the potential outcomes, service users may become more recptive to or other forms of support, and leave self harm behind.
For more information on how Stepping Out can help, or to make a referral, contact us.
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