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Common reasons for self-harming

Self-harm is when someone does something to hurt themselves on purpose, like cutting, burning, taking pills, hitting or picking at oneself or using objects to hurt oneself.

Some common reasons people self-harm include:

  • Wanting to feel something/not feel numb
  • A release of emotional pain, anger or frustration
  • A way to punish oneself.
  • A way to be present with reality.
  • A way to distract oneself from thinking negative thoughts.
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