1. Spectrum of Self-Harm

2. The Spectrum of Self-Harm
Cutting, scratching, picking, scraping, scalding
Inserting objects into the skin or into orifices
Swallowing objects, eating objects
Swallowing toxic or harmful substances
Hitting self with an object, fist, or against something
Pulling out hair, cutting hair off, shaving
Washing or scrubbing harmfully – Brillo pad, wire brush etc.
Severing limbs, genitals
Self – strangling
Abuse of alcohol, drugs, solvents; smoking – nicotine and other substances; drug overdoses
Starving, bingeing, vomiting, compulsive eating, anorexia, bulimia, overeating
Genital mutilation, mutilation of breasts etc.
Engaging in dangerous sexual behaviour or unwanted sex
Staying in abusive or unsatisfactory relationships ( N.B. many have little choice)
Self-isolation
Excessive use of sun-beds, not using sun tan lotion, sunburn

3. The Spectrum of Self-Harm
Excessive risk taking, putting yourself in dangerous situations
Over exercise
Driving too fast or when drunk
Not looking after your health: eating poorly; not getting enough exercise or over exercising, not getting enough relaxation, rest; not keeping warm, not taking care of ailments etc.
Getting into fights; getting into trouble with the police
Gambling, habitual over spending
Financial crisis – shoplifting etc.
Criminal behaviour
Rocking
Being ‘selfless’ – consistently putting one’s own needs last
Guilt, worry, self-denigration, expecting too much of oneself
Habitual overwork, over ambition, under – ambition
Insulin abuse/Abuse of prescription drugs
Draining blood – with a shunt
Body piercing / Tattooing
Biting nails to the quick