Hato Hone St John | Non-suicidal self-injury 

A person may harm themselves on purpose as a way to deal with upsetting feelings, thoughts or memories. It could be a sign that they have an illness like depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  Self-injury is a way of coping and is not the same as suicide where a person deliberately takes their own life. 

Quick Help

Check whether the person needs first aid straightaway. Call 111 and ask for an ambulance if the injury is life-threatening. 
Call 111 and ask for an ambulance if the person is unresponsive. 
If you are uncertain call Healthline on 0800 611 116

Self-injury is not the same as a suicide attempt, but it’s often a symptom of an illness, and a sign that the person needs support.

What to look for

A person who is self-injuring may show physical or psychological signs, or both. 

Unexplained injuries 

Unusual scratches or burn marks.  

Recurring medical complaints  

The person may often say they feel unwell with things like stomach pains or headaches.  

Wearing clothes inappropriate to conditions 

For example, wearing long sleeves and pants in the middle of summer. 

Dramatic changes in mood  

Especially in teenagers, or in adults who have self-injured before. 

Changes in eating and sleeping patterns 

The person may start to eat and sleep a lot more or a lot less than usual. 

Losing interest in friends and social activities 

The person doesn’t spend time with their friends or do any of their favourite hobbies anymore. 

Not communicating 

The person doesn’t talk to their friends and whānau as much as usual. 

Hiding clothes or washing own clothes separately  

The person may be hiding blood on their clothes. 

Problems with relationships 

The person may not be getting on well with their partner, whānau or friends.

Low self-esteem 

Not feeling good about themselves. 

Being secretive about feelings 

The person tries to hide how they are really feeling.

How you can help

It can be very frightening for a person to talk about their self-injuring behaviour. The best thing to do is stay calm and let the person speak freely. 

Give support and reassurance 

First, check if the person needs immediate first aid and call 111 for an ambulance if their life is in danger. 
Give support and reassurance by letting them know that it’s okay to feel the way they do. 
Let them do the talking – the most valuable thing you can do is listen. 
Reassure them that help and support are available.   
Work together to find solutions and support rather than telling the person what to do. 
Help them arrange to see a medical professional, like a doctor or counsellor.