Self-harm is a mental health disorder where people injure themselves either deliberately or through impulsive action. Therapy can help reduce the potential of self-harm and also help with the recovery process. The therapy can be done by an individual, a therapist, or both. It is important to know that it can take anywhere from one to three years for someone to recover fully from self-harm.
Self-Harm Therapy
Self-harm is a form of self-injury that is usually used as a coping mechanism for stress. The statistics show that rates in the United States are at an all-time high, with the numbers rising by 25% in just two years. In addition, there has been an increase in self-harm among young people. Research also shows that women are more likely to engage in self-harm behaviors — luckily therapy can help.
Schedule an AppointmentPurpose of Therapy for Self-Harm
Types of therapies and treatments for self-harm
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy – CBT – is a type of talk therapy that deals with the way you think about and respond to situations. It can help you understand how your thoughts affect your moods and your actions. The goal of cognitive behavioral therapy is to change patterns in our thinking or behavior that are unhealthy or incorrect, which will improve our mood and overall quality of life.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy was created by Marsha Linehan in the 1980s. She developed this type of therapy because she wanted to find a way to help people reduce their self-harming behaviors. DBT is based on the idea that people with self-harm habits have different ways of viewing themselves and their environment, which causes them to behave differently. It also acknowledges that these different views are not necessarily wrong or bad, just unique perspectives to be dealt with.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Self-harm is a coping mechanism that people use to deal with or express intense, overwhelming emotions. These behaviors are often repetitive and can be dangerous, even life-threatening. Psychodynamic therapy is based on the theory that psychological symptoms are the result of conflicts within the personality. It is a long process that requires patience and commitment from both therapist and client. This therapy helps people explore their past experiences with the aim to understand how these incidents have affected them in their present lives.
Other Types of Therapies
Talk therapy and lifestyle changes have also been shown to improve a patient’s habits and decrease their self-harm ideations. These include interpersonal therapy, behavioral activation, mindfulness therapy, and even sports therapy.
Your Local Psychiatrist NYC advantages and experience in self-harm therapy
At Your Local Psychiatrist we believe that every patient is unique and that every method – psychotherapy, and psychiatry – has its value. That’s why we take a blended approach to each case. Not only treating the mind but the body. Our aim is to create fast and effective treatments – a result-oriented solution. One that gives you relief as soon as possible.
- Board Certified and highly experienced providers
- Individual approach to patients
- Easy-to-access online psychiatry and psychotherapy services
- Electronic prescriptions
- Portal access to your providers and appointments
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Self-harm therapy techniques
Self-harm therapy techniques are an important part of the recovery process for those who have this issue. They are critical therapeutic methods that help people learn better-coping skills and find alternative ways to deal with their feelings.
FAQs about self-harm therapy
How difficult is it for someone to stop repetitive self-injurious behavior without therapy?
It is difficult for someone to stop repetitive self-injurious behavior without therapy. For example, if a person has been cutting themselves, they might not be able to stop without professional help. They will need to talk about their feelings and work through the emotions that are leading them to perform such actions.
How long should therapy for self-harm last?
The duration of therapy for self-harm can vary from person to person. It also depends on the severity of the act and how often it is repeated. Some people need short-term therapy, while others need long-term therapy. Some people may need to visit a therapist for years before they are able to cope with their feelings and emotions without hurting themselves. A therapist will recommend the duration of therapy based on the severity of an individual’s mental health issue, their needs and how long they have been harming themselves.
What are the benefits of self-harm therapy?
Self-harm therapy is a beneficial and highly-successful treatment for mental health. Most people may find this form of therapy helpful as it allows them to express their feelings in a safe environment and without the risk of physical harm. Self-harm is not just about cutting or burning yourself, but also includes other forms of self-injury such as scratching, poking or skin picking. This type of therapy is often used to help people with depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
What can parents and friends do to help one suffering from self-harm?
Self-harm is a form of self-injury that is often done without the intent to commit suicide. It can be triggered by emotional distress, mental health issues, or as a way to cope with difficult feelings. The first step towards helping someone who is struggling with self-harm is to learn more about the problem and what it entails. This will help you better understand the person’s needs and how you can best support them. Most people who self-harm will not want to talk about their feelings or admit they are struggling with their mental health, so it may take time for them to open up and share what’s going on in their life — It’s important to find a professional as soon as possible and allow them to evaluate how severe the issue is. A professional will also implement a game plan in order to mitigate the negative impulses that push a patient towards self-harm.