Understanding Self-Harm and Cutting | Page 5

Unexplained injuries, wounds or scars such as cuts,

bruises or burns, typically on the wrists, arms, thighs or chest.

Blood stains on clothing, towels, bedding

Sharp objects like razors, knives, needles, glass

"Accidents" that happen frequently; claims to just be

"clumsy" or other excuses to explain why

Covering up with long sleeves and other clothing to

hide injuries

Wanting to be alone for long periods of time in the

bedroom or bathroom

Isolation and irritability

Intense emotional trauma, either past or current, such

as losing a loved one, parent's divorce or bullying

Abuse

Cutting or severly scratching skin

Carving words or symbols into skin

Burning or scalding yourself

Biting or hitting yourself

Punching things or throwing your body against walls and hard objects

Sticking objects into your skin

Pulling hair out

Intentionally preventing wounds from healing

Swallowing poisonous substances or objects

Common Forms of Self-Harm

Signs of Self-Harm