Although it’s often a hidden condition, non-suicidal self-harm is when people intentionally and repeatedly injure themselves without intending to take their own lives. The self-harm is often a symptom of a mental health problem, and may be a coping mechanism for dealing with intense emotional pain.

1. Acknowledge self-harm. You’re self-harming if you cut or scratch yourself on the arms or torso, or repeatedly have burns, bruises or cuts in the same place.
2. Obtain an evaluation. If you’re harming yourself, you’ll need to arrange for an evaluation by a licensed mental health professional.
3. Know that treatment helps. People who are self-harming can, through therapy, learn to address the underlying issues and develop alternative ways to cope with urges to self-harm. 

Help is available! Visit the Mind Your Mental Health website or contact your program to learn more about how to help yourself or someone you care about. 

This month, Stamp Out Stigma recognizes self-harm awareness. One in five Americans struggle with some kind of mental health condition, yet many don’t seek treatment. The largest barriers for those with mental health conditions are lack of accessibility to professional treatment, the stigma surrounding mental health, or a lack of knowledge about mental health conditions. It’s our job to help end the stigma surrounding mental health by sharing resources and starting conversations. Remember, mental illness does not discriminate.

Here are some important facts you should know:

• 1 in 5 adults in America experience a mental illness.
• About 17% of all people will self-harm during their lifetime.
• Bipolar disorder affects approximately 5 million adult Americans.
• 90% of people who engage in self-harm begin during their teen or pre-adolescent years.
• The average age-of-onset is about 25, but it can occur in the teens, or more uncommonly, in childhood.

Remember, mental illness does not discriminate. Join us to help bring attention to the importance of sharing mental health stories and help improve the lives of millions of Americans living with a mental illness.

Help is available! Visit www.MagellanHealthcare.com/About/MYMH or contact your program to learn more about how to help yourself or someone you care about.