If you are in immediate danger or thinking about ending your life, please reach out to emergency services or someone you trust right now. You deserve support, and help is available.
Self-harm is more common, and more misunderstood, than most people realise. It’s often met with fear or judgement — which only pushes people further into silence. Understanding it with compassion is the first step to helping.
What self-harm is (and isn’t)
Self-harm is when someone hurts themselves to cope with overwhelming emotional pain. It is usually a sign of deep distress — often linked to depression, trauma, or emotional overwhelm — not “attention-seeking”.
Why it happens
- To release unbearable emotional pain
- To feel something, or regain a sense of control
- To cope when there are no other tools yet
How to help yourself or someone else
- Respond with compassion, never shame or ultimatums
- Reach out to a trusted person or professional
- Build alternative coping tools with support
Recovery is possible
Therapy helps people understand the pain beneath self-harm and build healthier ways to cope. Reaching out is a brave, hopeful step. Talk to a licensed therapist confidentially.
Frequently asked questions
Is self-harm the same as being suicidal?
Not necessarily, though they can be related. Both are signs of serious distress that deserve professional support.
How can I support someone who self-harms?
Respond calmly and without judgement, avoid ultimatums, and gently encourage professional help. If they’re in danger, seek emergency support.
Talk to someone who gets it
You don’t have to work through this alone. Mytherapist.ng connects you with licensed Nigerian therapists over secure video, audio, or chat — from ₦4,000. Take the free 2-minute check-in, or browse therapists to get started today.
Suggested read: Making a Safety Plan Before You Need It
