Self Harm

Self-harm is a term that encompasses a range of behaviours where an individual intentionally inflicts harm on themselves as a way of coping with emotional pain or distress. It's important to note that self-harm is not an expression of suicidal intent; rather, it often serves as a means for individuals to cope with overwhelming emotions or situations.

The methods of self-harm can vary and may include cutting, burning, hitting, or other forms of self-inflicted injury. These actions are often carried out in private, and individuals may go to great lengths to conceal their injuries.

It's crucial to approach the topic with sensitivity and empathy, understanding that self-harm is often a visible sign of an underlying emotional struggle. People who self-harm may find temporary relief from emotional pain through these actions, but it is not a healthy or sustainable coping mechanism.

Mental health professionals can provide support, guidance, and resources to address the root causes of emotional distress and develop healthier coping strategies.

National Support

• The Calm Zone – information and support about self-harm.
• Self Harm – online support for 11-17 year olds.
• Self Injury Support – support and resources for women and girls who self-injure.
• Mind 'The charity for better mental health' has an extensive range of self-help resources available
• SAMH (Scottish for Mental Health) - advice on self-help, accessing support and wellbeing assessment tool
• See Me - self-help, myth busting, advice about how to talk about mental health, personal experience stories.
• Quell - Free, safe, and anonymous mental wellbeing support for adults across the UK
• Kooth - is your online mental wellbeing community. Access free, safe, and anonymous support, for 11–25-year-olds
• Mental Health Foundation - comprehensive advice and support in all areas of mental health and learning disabilities.

Local Support

Angus
 

• Penumbra - dedicated services for people with mild to serious and enduring mental ill health.
• Social Prescribing Mental Health and Wellbeing Peer Support, The Listening Service available via GP surgeries

Dundee
 

• Penumbra - dedicated services for people with mild to serious and enduring mental ill health.
• Wellbeing Works - one-to-one support and group activities to help people and to promote better mental health and wellbeing.
• Hope Point - Community Wellbeing Support – 24/7 compassionate support when you are feeling distressed or overwhelmed. Drop in to 4 South Ward Road, call 0800 955 0008 or text 01382 604123.
• Feeling Strong – Dundee’s Youth Mental Health Charity exists to make sure that every young person in Dundee who has experienced a mental health or wellbeing challenge is supported to reach their full potential. You can email contact@feelingstrong.co.uk or follow on Facebook or Twitter.
• The Corner is a Health and Information Service for Young People aged 11-19 living in Dundee. Appointments can be made by phoning 01382 206060 or emailing tay.office.corner@nhs.scot. 
• Social Prescribing available via GP surgeries

Perth & Kinross

• Mindspace - counselling and support for people who are facing difficulties or challenges including: - bereavement or loss, anxiety or depression, abuse or traumatic events, stress of work or in the home, difficulties in family or intimate relationships.
• Wellbeing Support Team - offer free short-term support and intervention for up to 6 months to adults aged 16 plus, who have mental health needs such as depression and anxiety, or other mental health issues which significantly interfere with the individual’s cognitive, social, or emotional abilities.