Self-harm is often a silent cry for help—a way individuals cope with overwhelming emotional pain, anxiety, or trauma. It is not attention-seeking behavior, but rather a serious mental health concern that demands empathy, understanding, and professional care.
If you or someone you love is experiencing thoughts of self-harm, don’t ignore the signs. In Bhopal, Dr. Mitali Soni Loya, a leading psychiatrist and mental health specialist, offers sensitive, expert care to address the root causes and guide individuals toward healing.
What is Self-Harm?
Self-harm, also known as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), is the act of intentionally hurting oneself as a way to cope with emotional distress. While it may offer temporary relief, it often leads to deeper emotional turmoil and a higher risk of long-term mental health issues, including suicide.
Common Forms of Self-Harm Include:
- Cutting or scratching the skin
- Burning oneself
- Hitting or punching oneself or objects
- Pulling out hair (trichotillomania)
- Preventing wounds from healing
It’s crucial to understand that self-harm is not a mental illness itself, but a symptom of underlying emotional struggles such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or borderline personality disorder.
Why Do People Think About Self-Harm?
People may turn to self-harm as a coping mechanism when they feel emotionally overwhelmed, numb, or disconnected. The behavior is often a way to:
- Express internal pain
- Gain a sense of control
- Release built-up emotions
- Punish oneself due to feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Feel something when numbness sets in
If you’re asking, “Why am I having thoughts of self-harm?”, it’s a sign that deeper psychological pain needs to be addressed in a safe, non-judgmental space.
Risk Factors for Self-Harm
Several risk factors can make individuals more vulnerable to engaging in self-harming behaviors:
1. Mental Health Disorders
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Borderline personality disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Eating disorders
- Substance abuse
2. Past Trauma or Abuse
Experiencing emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, particularly during childhood, significantly increases the risk of self-harm.
3. Low Self-Esteem
Persistent negative self-image or feelings of worthlessness often drive self-harming behaviors.
4. Peer Pressure & Social Isolation
Teenagers and young adults may be influenced by peers or struggle with intense loneliness, both of which can lead to self-injury.
5. Family History
A family history of mental illness, self-harm, or suicide increases the likelihood of similar patterns in individuals.
6. LGBTQ+ Identity & Discrimination
Discrimination, identity struggles, and lack of acceptance contribute to elevated rates of self-harm in LGBTQ+ youth and adults.
Warning Signs of Self-Harm
Being aware of the warning signs of self-harm can help in identifying when someone is in need of help—even if they aren’t verbally expressing their pain.
Physical Signs:
- Unexplained cuts, bruises, or burns (often on wrists, thighs, or arms)
- Wearing long sleeves or pants even in hot weather
- Frequent accidents or explanations that don’t align with injuries
Emotional and Behavioral Signs:
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities
- Mood swings, irritability, or emotional numbness
- Expressions of hopelessness or self-hate
- Collecting sharp objects or other self-harm tools
- Talking about feeling trapped, broken, or like a burden
If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s critical to seek help from a mental health expert like Dr. Mitali Soni Loya without delay.
The Connection Between Self-Harm and Suicide
While self-harm is often not intended as a suicide attempt, it can increase the risk of suicide over time, especially if left untreated. Individuals who self-harm are more likely to experience suicidal thoughts or actions due to the severity of emotional pain and lack of healthy coping mechanisms.
Seeking professional intervention at an early stage can significantly reduce this risk and promote long-term emotional stability.
Dr. Mitali Soni Loya’s Approach to Self-Harm Treatment in Bhopal
At her mental wellness clinic in Bhopal, Dr. Mitali Soni Loya provides personalized, trauma-informed care for individuals struggling with self-harm thoughts and behaviors. Her treatment plans are designed with empathy, privacy, and long-term healing in mind.
Her Services Include:
1. Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation
A thorough assessment of psychological history, emotional state, and behavior patterns to identify the root causes of self-harm.
2. Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps patients identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier alternatives.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Especially effective for those with borderline personality disorder and chronic self-harm, DBT emphasizes emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
3. Medication Management
In cases involving severe depression, anxiety, or mood disorders, Dr. Mitali may prescribe medications such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers to aid in emotional regulation.
4. Family Counseling
Involving family members in the recovery journey ensures a supportive home environment and better outcomes.
5. Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention
Dr. Mitali provides urgent support and stabilization plans for those at immediate risk, including safety planning and emergency care coordination.
How to Support Someone with Self-Harm Thoughts
If you suspect a loved one is struggling, here are a few things you can do:
- Listen without judgment
- Avoid reacting with anger or panic
- Encourage them to seek professional help
- Do not force them to stop—healing takes time and professional support
- Offer consistent emotional support
Healing is Possible — You're not alone
Having thoughts of self-harm doesn’t make someone weak, broken, or attention-seeking—it means they are struggling and need help. With professional intervention, support, and the right therapeutic approach, recovery is not only possible—it’s probable.
At her clinic in Bhopal, Dr. Mitali Soni Loya provides a safe and healing environment where individuals are heard, supported, and empowered to rebuild their lives.