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Person in hoodie hiding face with their hands using self-harm as a coping mechanism

Suffering Silently: Using Self-Injury as a Coping Mechanism

OCD and self-harm often go hand in hand, as people may have obsessive thoughts that lead to behaviors like cutting or burning. People with OCD may also feel shame or guilt about their intrusive thoughts, leading to self-harm as a way of punishing themselves. Unfortunately, this can create a negative cycle of distress and may lead to more severe problems if not addressed.

It is important for people with OCD to reach out for help to manage their symptoms and break this cycle. Promises Behavioral Health offers effective obsessive-compulsive disorder treatment that can help you learn to manage your symptoms and triggers, improve your quality of life, and stop using self-injury as a coping mechanism. Call 844.875.5609 to learn more.

Understanding OCD and Self-Injurious Behavior

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can lead to intrusive thoughts or urges that become difficult to manage and control. These thoughts or urges can sometimes result in compulsions or repetitive actions designed to reduce anxiety. In some cases, they can also lead to self-injurious behaviors as a way of trying to cope with the overwhelming feelings caused by OCD.

Self-injury, or self-harm, is a serious mental health issue that can be associated with OCD. Self-harm includes any intentional activity or behavior that results in harm to oneself. It may include cutting, burning, scratching, hitting, pulling hair, and other potentially dangerous behaviors.

In order for an individual to effectively manage their OCD and self-injurious behavior, they must first seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide individual therapy designed to address OCD symptoms and develop healthy coping strategies, as well as group therapy sessions to learn how to process thoughts more productively. Additionally, medication may be prescribed to help reduce the severity of OCD symptoms or lessen the intensity of urges to self-harm.

Using Self-Injury as a Coping Mechanism

Self-injury is a way of coping with difficult emotions or situations. It is not a suicide attempt but rather an act of self-harm that may temporarily relieve stress and negative feelings. Self-injury can take many forms, some of the most common being:

  • Cutting
  • Burning 
  • Hitting oneself with fists or other objects
  • Pulling out hair
  • Picking or scratching at the skin

People who engage in self-injury often feel ashamed and alone; however, this behavior is more common than one might think. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), roughly 4 percent of adults in the United States have engaged in some form of self-injury at least once in their lifetime. Additionally, those who struggle with mental health conditions such as OCD, depression, or anxiety are more likely to turn to self-injury as a coping mechanism.

It is important to note that self-injury is not an effective way of dealing with difficult emotions or situations in the long run. In fact, it can lead to more feelings of guilt, shame, and distress. Therefore, it is important for those who struggle with self-injury to seek professional help so that they can learn healthy ways of managing their stress and emotions.

Self-harm should be taken seriously. Educating yourself about self-injury can help you better support yourself or someone you care about who may be engaging in this behavior. It is also important for family members and friends of someone engaging in self-injury to offer patience and understanding.

How OCD Treatment Can Help

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment can help those who struggle with self-harm. Treatment helps individuals gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors while also learning skills to manage them. Here are some of the benefits of OCD treatment for self-harm:

  • Improved understanding of triggers and the ability to recognize warning signs
  • Reduced compulsions that lead to self-harm
  • Increased skills in problem-solving and emotion regulation
  • Enhanced coping strategies for dealing with difficult emotions
  • Increased feelings of control over one’s life
  • Greater sense of self-worth and increased confidence
  • Improved relationships with others

Through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), individuals learn how to identify and challenge negative thoughts, as well as how to cope with unhealthy urges. With the support of a therapist, individuals learn techniques to deal with their distress in healthier ways. OCD treatment can bring an overall sense of peace and improved quality of life. Through treatment, individuals can learn to accept their thoughts and feelings without self-harming.

If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm due to OCD, seeking help from a mental health professional is vital. Treatment can provide the guidance and support needed for lasting recovery. With the right help, those affected by OCD can find the strength to lead healthier lives free from self-harming behaviors.

Find Help for OCD and Self-Harm at Promises Behavioral Health

If you or someone you know is suffering from OCD or self-harm, it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible to prevent further harm. Promises Behavioral Health is an excellent option for those looking to seek help. Our team of experienced mental health professionals will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals. Call 844.875.5609 or fill out our online contact form to learn how we can help.

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