Emotional Self-Harm: What It Is and How to Overcome It
Emotional Self-Harm: What It Is and How to Overcome It
- June 26, 2023
Emotional self-harm is a type of behaviour in which you intentionally hurt yourself mentally or emotionally. Unlike physical self-harm, such as cutting, emotional self harm is often invisible. People who engage in emotional self-harm may not even realize they are doing it, but it can have lasting consequences on their mental health and well-being.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what emotional self-harm is, the reasons behind it, and how to overcome it.
What is emotional self-harm?
Emotional self harm takes many forms, but it all involves damaging your emotional well-being. Some examples of emotional self harm may include:
– Participating in detrimental self-dialogue and consistently criticizing oneself
– Isolating yourself from friends and family
– Dwelling on negative thoughts and feelings
– Engaging in self-destructive behaviours, such as substance abuse or binge eating
– Sabotaging your own success or happiness
Why do people engage in emotional self-harm?
There are many reasons why someone may engage in emotional self harm. It may be a way to cope with negative feelings or past traumas. It may also be a result of low self-esteem or a lack of self-worth. Some individuals may engage in emotional self harm as a form of punishment or to feel a sense of control.
How to overcome emotional self-harm?
Overcoming emotional self harm takes time and effort, but it is possible. Here are some strategies that may help:
– Practise self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that you are doing the best you can.
– Challenge negative thoughts: When you notice negative self-talk or thoughts, challenge them by asking yourself if they are true or not.
– Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for support and guidance.
– Find healthy coping mechanisms: Rather than engaging in self-destructive behaviours, find healthier ways to cope with your emotions, such as exercise or meditation.
– Develop healthy habits: Focus on self-care and committing to healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active.
The importance of seeking professional help
If you are struggling with emotional self harm, it’s essential to seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can help you identify the underlying causes of your behaviour and provide you with tools and strategies to overcome it. They can also help you develop a strong support network and navigate any challenges that may arise during your recovery.
Recognizing and overcoming emotional self-harm can be a challenging process. However, by acknowledging it and taking steps to address it, you can improve your overall mental health and well-being. If you or someone you love is struggling with emotional self harm, know that help is available. A therapist or counsellor can provide you with the support and guidance you need to overcome this harmful behaviour and move forward in a healthy and positive way.
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