A young girl with long dark hair sitting down in corner looking in the distance.

If you or someone you know is self-harming, or is thinking about self-harming, there is support available.

What is self-harm?

Self-harm is when a person causes physical pain to themselves.

This can be done in ways including: cutting, burning, biting, punching objects or themselves, pulling out hair, scratching skin, poisoning.

If you are self-harming, or you know someone who is self-harming, help is available. Is there a trusted adult you can talk to about how you are feeling? Childline is always here to listen to you and support you.

Why do people self-harm?

Self-harm is most often used as a way to cope with difficult experiences and the feelings connected with them.

People who self-harm may have experienced:

How can a person who is self-harming feel:

I am self-harming

If you’re hurting yourself or have thoughts about self-harming, remember you don’t have to go through this on your own. There is help available and there are people who care about you. Childline is always here to listen to you and support you.

My friend is self-harming

It can be difficult to understand why someone would want to harm themselves. It’s normal to feel shocked, angry, sad or even confused about this.

It is important to let your friend know that there is support available.

It is also important for you to get adult support if you find out that a friend is self-harming. You do not have to go through this alone.

How can I get help?

You have the right to get help and support. You are not alone.

Talking can help you to explore your difficulties and find healthier, more positive ways to cope with the pain you feel inside. It can help to talk with an adult you trust, or with a professional.