What is non-suicidal self-injury?
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) means hurting oneself without wanting to die. It includes actions like cutting, burning, or hitting oneself. NSSI is common among people with borderline personality disorder (BPD). BPD is a mental health problem that makes it hard for someone to manage their emotions and relationships. One former client used to let her cat bite in her arm as a distraction from emotional suffering.
Why do people with BPD engage in NSSI?
People with BPD often have intense emotions that are difficult to control. NSSI can be a way for them to cope with these feelings. Here are some reasons why they might hurt themselves:
- To feel something: When feeling emotionally numb, NSSI can help them feel more alive.
- To release emotional pain: Hurting themselves physically can be a way to release it.
- To punish themselves: They may think they deserve hurt because of guilt or shame.
- To communicate distress: NSSI can show others how much they suffer inside.
One former client used to let her cat bite her arm as a distraction from emotional suffering, resulting sometimes in wounds that would take quite some time to heal.
How can therapy help?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that has been proven effective for treating BPD and reducing self-harm behaviours. DBT focuses on teaching skills in four areas:
- Mindfulness: Learning to pay attention to the present moment without judgment.
- Emotional regulation: Understanding and managing emotions better.
- Interpersonal effectiveness: Improving relationships and communication skills.
- Distress tolerance: Building resilience to cope with difficult situations.
In DBT, people learn healthier coping methods instead of resorting to self-harm. NSSI is a severe issue among people with BPD, but therapy like DBT can help reduce this behaviour by teaching better-coping strategies and emotional management skills. If you or someone you know is struggling with NSSI and BPD, seek professional help.
