Is self-harm good for you?

By Robert Whiston FRSA, Oct 2007 Civilisations and societies everywhere have, since time immemorial, generally taken a disapproving view and an instinctive abhorrence of suicide. read more

By definition, self-harm is harmful for you, not good. But maybe you mean mentally, not physically. In that case, no, still not good. The specifics will vary from person to person, but usually include isolation and secrecy, poor communication, and unhealthy dependence. read more

Self-harm is defined as 'intentionally damaging the body tissue for reasons which are not socially sanctioned'; therefore tattooing, hair cuts, and trimming fingernails are not considered forms of self harm, even though the person is damaging body tissue. read more

Psychiatrists believe that, for kids with emotional problems, self-injury has an effect similar to cocaine and other drugs that release endorphins to create a feel-good feeling."Yet self-harm is different from taking drugs," Conterio explains."Anybody can take drugs and feel good. read more