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Self Harm Behavior Doesn't Always Equal Suicidal Behavior

By Joel Hardy

03/05/2014

(KAIR)--The issue of self harm is not usually one that most people talk about, but as March is self harm awareness month, the topic has been brought into the spotlight.

Joshua Snyder, the Director of the Safe Schools, Healthy Kids program in USD 377 says that a person exhibiting self harming behavior isn't necessarily suicidal. Self harm is an action a person takes to harm themselves.

Snyder says there are some signs to look for if you suspect a loved one may be engaging in self harm. He says if you notice they have changed behaviors and is acting a little odd, you may want to check up on them, and to follow up on them if they start to exhibit signs such as wearing long sleeved clothing when the weather does not call for it, as this may be an attempt to cover up cuts. He adds that another sign could be when a person starts to act protective or defensive when you ask them if they are harming themselves.

Snyder says there are many different local resources available for anyone that needs help, and encourages anyone to seek that help as soon as possible.

Snyder advises anyone who wants to help a loved one through self harm to just help them, be there for them, and most importantly, do not judge them or force them to do anything they do not want to do.

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