Self-Injury Awareness Day: Understanding What Self-Harm Really Means

Self-Injury Awareness Day, observed globally on 1 March, is dedicated to increasing understanding of self-harm and reducing the shame that often surrounds it.

Self-injury is rarely about “attention-seeking”. More often, it is about coping. It can be a way someone regulates overwhelming emotions, numbness, shame, or internal chaos.

If we only focus on stopping the behaviour without understanding the pain underneath it, we miss the point.

What Is Self-Injury?

Self-injury (sometimes called self-harm or non-suicidal self-injury) refers to intentionally hurting oneself as a way of managing emotional distress.

Common forms include:

• Cutting

• Burning

• Hitting oneself

• Picking or scratching skin repeatedly

• Interfering with wound healing

It is important to note: Self-injury is not always linked to suicidal intent. For many individuals, it is an attempt to cope, not to die.

That does not mean it is not serious. It is a signal of significant distress.

What Might the Signs Look Like?

Self-harm is often hidden. Signs may include:

Physical Signs:

• Unexplained cuts, bruises, or burns

• Wearing long sleeves in hot weather

• Frequent “accidents”

  
  

Emotional Signs:

• Intense shame or secrecy

• Withdrawal from others

• Sudden emotional shifts

• Expressions of worthlessness or self-loathing

  
  

Behavioural Signs:

• Isolation

• Avoiding situations where skin might be seen

• Collecting sharp objects without clear reason

  
  

It is not about becoming suspicious of everyone. It is about gently noticing patterns and responding with care rather than alarm.

Why Do People Self-Harm?

From a psychological perspective, self-injury can function as:

• Emotional regulation (reducing overwhelming feelings)

• Self-punishment (linked to shame)

• A way to “feel something” when numb

• A form of communication when words feel inaccessible

• A sense of control during chaos

  
  

When we understand the function, we move from judgement to curiosity.

How to Respond If Someone You Know Is Self-Harming

• Stay calm.

• Avoid ultimatums.

• Avoid reacting with shock or anger.

• Express concern without accusation.

• Encourage professional support gently.

  
  

You do not have to fix it. You just need to stay present.

Where to Get Support in Singapore

If you or someone you know needs support:

• Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)

  • 24/7 Hotline: 1767

• IMH Mental Health Helpline

  • 6389 2222

• CHAT

  • Youth mental health support

  • ​​6493 6500 / 6493 6501

If there is immediate danger, call 995.

If you are outside Singapore, please contact your local crisis support services.

If this resonates, you are not broken. You are likely carrying more than anyone realises.

Support is available.