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What is Self-Harm?

Self-harm can take many forms. Some of the types of self-harm we see, involves cutting off the arms, legs and other parts of the body. Taking deliberate overdoses of prescribed drugs is also a form of self-harm. Self-harm also includes high risk taking behaviour e.g. risky driving and risky sexual b

  • Self-Harm: I’ve been there
  • Get Help If Self Harm Is a Problem For You
  • What Can Family And Friends Do To Help?
  • What Can The Person Who Cuts Do To Help?
  • Can Self-Harm be Treated?
  • What Are The Consequences Of This Behaviour?
  • Why Do People Cut?
  • What is Self-Harm?
  • Self-harm can take many forms. Some of the types of self-harm we see, involves cutting off the arms, legs and other parts of the body. Taking deliberate overdoses of prescribed drugs is also a form of self-harm. Self-harm also includes high risk taking behaviour e.g. risky driving and risky sexual behaviour. It seems as though the person indulging in these behaviours does not care enough about their safety. In this short introduction we will focus on cutting.

    Clinically reviewed. This article was written and reviewed by the clinical team at the Australian Suicide Prevention Foundation.

    Important: This information is general guidance and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are in crisis, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 000 for immediate danger.