Understanding Self-harm and How Support Can Help
Self-harm is often misunderstood. It is not about attention, weakness, or wanting to die. For many people, self-harm is a way of coping with overwhelming emotions when other options feel out of reach.
People who self-harm are often trying to manage intense feelings such as anxiety, numbness, shame, anger, or emotional pain. While self-harm may provide temporary relief, it can also become a cycle that feels difficult to break without support.
Self-harm is more common than many people realise, particularly among adolescents and young adults.
According to the Australian Institute of Family Studies, around 1 in 6 adolescents report having engaged in self-injury at some point, and many more experience urges to self-harm.
At Logic Lounge, we approach self-harm with compassion, curiosity, and evidence-based care. Our focus is on understanding what sits underneath the behaviour and supporting safer ways to cope.
Why People Self-Harm
Self-harm looks different for different people. There is no single cause. For many, it serves a purpose at the time, even if it brings longer-term consequences.
Common reasons people describe include:
- Reducing intense emotional distress
- Feeling something when feeling emotionally numb
- Releasing tension or overwhelming anxiety
- Regaining a sense of control
- Expressing pain that feels impossible to put into words
Self-harm often occurs alongside anxiety, depression, trauma, or chronic stress. At Logic Lounge, support for self-harm is frequently connected with care for anxiety, depression, and emotional overwhelm.
Self-Harm and Suicide. Understanding the Difference
Self-harm and suicide are related but not the same.
Many people who self-harm do not want to die. However, ongoing self-harm can increase risk over time, particularly if distress escalates or coping options narrow.
The AIHW notes that people who engage in self-harm are at increased risk of later suicidal behaviour, which is why early support and assessment are important.
Talking openly about self-harm does not make it worse. In fact, evidence shows that compassionate conversations can reduce shame and support help-seeking.
Psychologists Providing Support for Self-Harm Concerns
How Therapy Can Help With Self-Harm
Therapy for self-harm is not about punishment, ultimatums, or forcing change. It is about understanding what the behaviour does for you and finding safer, more sustainable ways to cope.
Psychological support may involve:
- Exploring emotional triggers and patterns
- Learning emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills
- Reducing shame and self-criticism
- Developing safer coping strategies
- Strengthening support networks
Many people find group-based approaches helpful alongside individual therapy. Logic Lounge offers DBT group therapy programs for both adults and adolescents, supporting people to manage intense emotions and urges more safely.
When Additional Support May Be Needed
In some situations, self-harm occurs alongside complex mental health needs that benefit from additional assessment or coordinated care.
Logic Lounge offers collaborative care with psychiatric support through our Sydney psychiatrist services, working alongside psychological therapy when medication review or diagnostic clarification is appropriate.
If You Are Supporting Someone Who Self-Harms
If someone you care about is self-harming, it can feel frightening and confusing. Many people worry about saying the wrong thing.
What often helps most is:
- Staying calm and listening without judgement
- Expressing care and concern rather than anger or panic
- Encouraging professional support
Asking about self-harm does not cause it. Evidence shows that open, compassionate conversations can reduce isolation and risk.
A Supportive Place to Reach Out
At Logic Lounge, we understand that self-harm is not something people choose lightly. It is often a sign of unmet emotional needs and overwhelming distress.
Our clinicians offer respectful, evidence-based support for people who self-harm, as well as guidance for families and loved ones. You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out.
If self-harm is part of your experience, or if you are concerned about someone you care about, support is available. You do not have to manage this alone.
Find the right Psychologist for you
Our find a psychologist search tool allows you to easily find a psychologist or counsellor, tailored to your area of concern, your preferred language and the location that might be closest to you.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see a psychologist online?
Yes. We offer secure telehealth (video call & phone call) appointments.
How long until I can have an appointment?
Once your application is approved, we typically offer appointments within 5–7 days.
