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This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
What is self-harm?
Self-harm is a term used to describe the intentional infliction of harm to one's own body without the intention of ending one's life. This can include various behaviors such as cutting, burning, hitting, or other actions that cause physical pain or damage.
The history of this phenomenon is unfortunately not new, but the term "self-harm" (from the English "self-harm") has become popular relatively recently, especially with the advent of the internet, where young people began to openly share their experiences and struggles.
Reasons for self-harm
People resort to self-harm for various reasons, and often it is a manifestation of internal pain that is difficult to express in other ways. It may be related to depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation, or experienced violence. Self-harm can become a way to "release" emotional pain through physical pain, or a way to feel control in situations where everything seems to be out of control.
Cultural and social context
In different cultures and societies, self-harm can have different meanings and attitudes towards it. For example, in some communities, it may be considered a taboo that is not openly discussed. In others, it may be a reason for serious intervention and assistance.
However, it is worth noting that society as a whole has started to talk more about mental health and related issues, including self-harm. The importance of supporting people who face this cannot be overstated. In many countries, there are hotlines, support groups, and therapists who specialize in working with such patients.
Psychological help and support
When it comes to the modern approach to addressing this issue, psychotherapy plays a significant role, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps people understand their emotions, find alternative ways to express feelings, and, most importantly, learn to cope with stress without harming themselves.
Self-harm is a signal that a person needs help. It is very important not to ignore such situations but to seek specialists or support the person in their desire to find another way out of a difficult situation.
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