According to the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs, between two and six people out of every 100 have engaged in self-harm behavior at some point. The rates are even higher among individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health concerns. If you’re struggling or have a loved one who is, you don’t have to go through this alone. PTSD treatment at My 5 Palms offers hope and new healthy coping mechanisms for anyone experiencing PTSD and self-harm.
Why Do People with PTSD Engage in Self-Harm?
People with PTSD may self-harm for a variety of reasons. Some of them include:
- Emotional distress: Though it seems counterintuitive, self-harm can trigger relief. Endorphins act as natural painkillers, and although short-lived, they offer a reprieve from the intense feelings that someone with PTSD is experiencing.
- A distraction from emotional pain: Similarly, physical pain can serve as a distraction from overwhelming emotional pain.
- Needing to feel something: Some individuals with trauma-based conditions experience emotional numbness. Self-harm may seem as if it’s helping individuals to feel something again, even if it’s painful.
- Self-punishment: Some people may feel the need to harm themselves as a form of punishment for past events that have left them feeling shameful or guilty.
The British Journal of Clinical Psychology reported on a study that explored the link between self-disgust, shame, and self-harming behaviors. The results of the study suggest that self-harm may temporarily alleviate feelings of self-disgust in some individuals, however engagement in self-harm then elicits feelings of shame, causing a cyclical pattern.
Trauma’s Impact on the Body
There’s a strong connection between childhood mistreatment and self-harm behaviors. This includes physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, as well as neglect. This trauma can show up later in relation to how individuals think about and connect to their bodies.
Body Awareness and Trauma
People who have experienced early trauma may struggle with a sense of body ownership. Some common effects include:
- Distorted body perception: Trauma can lead to a sense of detachment from one’s body, causing a disconnect between mind and body.
- Negative body image: Feelings of shame, disgust, or rejection toward one’s body are common.
- Dissociation: This can make individuals feel as though they are not present in their own bodies, increasing the risk of self-harm.
No matter the reason behind your self-harm behaviors, or how your PTSD is manifesting, there is help. Compassionate PTSD treatment is available at My 5 Palms.
Coping with PTSD and Self-Harm
Effective PTSD Treatment focuses on helping people experiencing the symptoms develop healthier coping strategies, through therapeutic modalities like:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy helps people identify and change unhelpful thoughts, such as self-blame and shame
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): A therapy that focuses primarily on emotional regulation and coping techniques
- Trauma-focused therapies: Help individuals reconnect with their bodies and stay present in the moment
- Medication: Antidepressants and other medications can support mood stabilization
- Support systems: Peer support groups and online communities can provide valuable emotional reinforcement.
It’s likely that a combination of the above options will be effective for someone experiencing PTSD. Treatment, plus community support and medication if needed, is a great way to create the infrastructure you need to heal.
Get the Help You’re Looking for at My 5 Palms
If you or a loved one is engaging in self-harming behaviors, seeking help is a brave first step. Coping with PTSD is challenging, but recovery is absolutely possible. We’ll provide the support you need to work through your trauma and develop new coping strategies to help you thrive. Call 1.844.675.1022 or submit our online contact form, and let us help you step into your next chapter.
