This page covers the definitions of self harm, as well as the support and resources available to you.
What is self harm?
Self-harm is when somebody intentionally damages or injures their body.
Some of the reasons that people may self-harm include:
- expressing or coping with emotional distress
- trying to feel in control
- a way of punishing themselves
- relieving unbearable emotional distress
- a cry for help
- a response to intrusive thoughts
Self-harm may be linked to bad experiences that are happening now, or in the past. But sometimes the reason is unknown. The reasons why someone self harms can change over time and will not be the same for everybody.
Support at UCL
UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services are here for you. We encourage you to get in touch and access our wide range of support. Please see here for the support we can provide.
External resources
There are also a number of services and websites that can help you better understand and cope with self harm.
- DistrACT app
Developed by Expert Self Care, the distrACT app provides easy, quick, and discreet access to general health information and advice about self-harm. It was created by practising medical doctors together with young adults and experts in self-harm and suicide prevention.
The distrACT app has the several sections, with reliable answers to your questions in plain language – anywhere, anytime, and in private, including:
About self-harm: Check out what self-harm is, why people self-harm, and how to spot the warning signs. Self-help: Learn how to identify your needs, manage the urge to self-harm, and use safer alternatives. Support: Find out how to get support, where to go for further help, and what to say. Chill zone: Discover new resources that may help you feel better when you're struggling or feeling tense, including art, books, films, music, poems, quotes, stories, and online videos.The distrACT app has been created by practicing medical doctors together with young adults and experts in self-harm and suicide prevention.
Download distrACT for Apple devices from the App Store
Download distrACT for Android devices from Google Play
- Emergency: Know what to do in an emergency, how to access help, and how best to work together with health professionals.
- NHS
The NHS has a list of useful support organisations available for anyone who self-harms or thinks about self harm, as well as friends and family.
It's best to speak to a GP about self-harm, but you may also find it helpful to speak to a free listening service or support organisation.
- Mind
The UK's mental health charity, Mind provides a wide range of resources and guidance for those who are self-harming.
Visit Mind's page on self-harm.- Rethink
Provides information and a helpline for anyone affected by mental health problems, including eating disorders.
Read Rethink’s page on self-harm, disclosing self-harm and help and treatment.- TESS
For women in the UK affected by self-harm.
Open Sunday to Thursday, from 7pm to 9pm via text or webchat from their webpage.
Phone: +44 (0)780 047 2908 (text message only) Website: selfinjurysupport.org.uk