There are a lot of mental disorders, and each one has different symptoms. On top of that, not everyone who has the same illness experiences the same effects. In any case, one of the most alarming signs of a mental condition is self-harm. For that reason, several groups work together to promote Self Injury Awareness Day (SIAD).
Self-injury as a Mental Illness Symptom
As a symptom of mental illness, self-harm is a behavior that demonstrates a lack of coping skills. It involves causing intentional harm to oneself. As such, it can indicate the presence of issues such as eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorder.
In most cases, people who struggle with self-injury make cuts on their bodies. Others might burn themselves, pick at wounds or pull out their hair. Extreme injuries, including broken bones, are also possible. Basically, causing any type of harm to themselves is an act of self-harm.
Self-injury or the thought of it is an indication of emotional distress. Those with this problem hurt themselves to cope with intense feelings. Despite that, the act causes feelings of shame as well.
When the urge to harm oneself persists, suicidal thoughts or behavior could develop. Because of that, it’s important for loved ones to step in with nonjudgmental support. Sharing information and helping those who struggle with self-injury is the purpose behind Self Injury Awareness Day 2019. It can help them reach out to the Houston psychiatry services they need.
About Self Injury Awareness Day
SIAD is a worldwide annual event that occurs on March 1. Medical professionals, educators, and volunteers attend workshops and conferences on this day. These focus of these events is to make the public aware of self-harm.
As with every other year, Self Injury Awareness Day 2019 aims to eliminate the stigma that surrounds self-injury. The goal is to encourage the public to recognize the signs and help those who suffer from it. In addition, the day aims to inspire people to talk about their own struggles and how they’ve achieved healing. While many participants wear orange ribbons, others draw butterflies on their wrists or the word “love” on their arms.
LifeSIGNS has been a major contributor to SIAD since its launch in 2002. It’s also a leading resource for information about self-harm. The group believes that it’s imperative to raise awareness about this issue. Its goal is to increase understanding while reducing fear and judgment.
Although LifeSIGNS can provide information and support, it can’t educate everyone on its own. Through Self Injury Awareness Day, the public can spread the information. For example, shareable resources are available on the LifeSIGNS website. The public can share its video, print and put up posters, pass out fact sheets, and share online images.
Get Help to Prevent Self-harm
Do you know someone who struggles with hurting himself or herself? Help is available at PACE Mental Health Houston. Our Houston psychiatry services include therapy for many illnesses, including:
Don’t ignore the signs of self-harm in a loved one. Learn more about this issue at an event on Self Injury Awareness Day. Call our mental health clinic at 866.971.8423 for more information about our services.
