Western New York Teacher Center

 

Alarmingly more common than generalized recognized, self-injurious behavior or SIB is a deliberate, intentional injury to one’s own body as a way of coping with overwhelming stress. Cutting, burning, mutilating, self-embedding and self-harm are some examples of SIB. Finding healthier coping strategies is part of a process that leads to change. Education about this difficult and disturbing topic is available. Causes of self-injury are not simple, though SIB can become part of a highly addictive pattern of behavior. Although self-injurious behaviors do place individuals at a higher risk for possible suicidal thinking, self-injury is not necessarily an action related to suicidal thoughts or feelings. The issue does not stop at national borders; this world-wide website sponsored by the Royal College of Psychiatrists offers a guide for self-help.    

 

A word of warning: the sites listed on this page were screened in an attempt to avoid any triggers for those who might experience the urge to harm themselves. Material on this topic can have a negative influence on vulnerable individuals. For that reason it is important that one always seek positive and affirming content in any books, websites and other resources on this topic.