Today is recognized from all around the world as Self-Injury Awareness Day which is a time to pause and consider the dangers of the behavior. 

Dallas County Health Department Navigation Coordinator Ann Cochran says that Self-Injury Awareness Day is recognized internationally and it raises the awareness of those who are engaging in self-harm behaviors such as “cutting” or other intentional methods of self-injury. Cochran tells Raccoon Valley Radio that almost always the intentional  self-harm acts are driven from someone’s negative thoughts and feelings about themselves. She notes there is help. 

“All forms of self harm should be taken seriously. If you or someone you know is engaging in this kind of behavior. Help is available. They can call 988 to talk to a teen counselor. You can text to 741-741 for crisis help. Definitely. This is something that is treatable.”

Cochran says that mental illness is closely related with the actions of self harm and needs to be taken seriously.  She says often self-harm is not an act of suicide but if left untreated the underlying causes of self-injury can lead to suicidal behaviors and thoughts.