What is Self-Harm

	Self neglect - the individual neglects to attend to their essential self-care tasks such as food, hygiene, shelter, medical care, etc.
	Risky behaviour - examples include: unprotected sex, dangerous driving, remaining in a violent relationship
	Alcohol and substance abuse, including prescription medication
	Eating disorders - anorexia, bulimia, binging
	Self-injury - examples include: cutting, burning and picking: but the list is extensive. More examples will be found throughout this website and associated videos

Self-harm is an individual's way of dealing with feelings and emotional distress that they find impossible to express in any other way.

It is not attention seeking: individuals deliberately hide their behaviour from others and it is usually carried out in a secretive way.

There is rarely suicidal intent.

The short video below was filmed with Ruby Wax as part of the BBC's Headroom series.

Be Safe - Contact SAFA - 01229 841372

Ruby Wax is a trained psychologist.

At the time of filming, she was training as a neurologist.

She has had mental health issues, including self-harm, for much of her life.