Self-harm
Self-harm is when someone intentionally hurts themselves; this can take many forms, such as cutting, hitting or burning oneself.
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It is more common than you might think, especially amongst younger people, although it can affect people of any age. It is estimated that around 10% of young people self-harm at some point, however the figure may actually be higher as not all people seek help. Often people try to hide their self-harm; they might feel ashamed, concerned about being judged or worried about the reactions of others.
People self-harm for many reasons; sometimes it is used as a coping strategy to help manage difficult feelings or as a way of communicating distress. Whilst for some people self-harming might indicate that they are feeling suicidal, for many people it does not. It is important to be assessed by a professional who can explore these things, assess risk, and think with the person about the best way to help.
Self-harm often occurs in response to overwhelming emotions, which people find difficult to think or speak about. It can take some time to understand a person’s feelings in relation to their self-harm; these might be conflicting and complex. Accessing therapy can give someone the space to do this in a non-judgemental environment. This might enable them to better understand their self-harm and to develop other ways of responding to their feelings over time.
How we can help
Here at the Tavistock we work to understand people as individuals. This can include thinking about self-destructive behaviours and the conscious and unconscious motivations behind these. Our services work with people across the life span; children, families, adolescents, young adults and adults; in order to explore such behaviours and think together about their meanings. We offer talking therapies such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, IPT and family therapy. We work with individuals on a one-to-one basis or in groups. Once a person is referred to our services an in-depth assessment will be conducted in order to consider the best way of working with them.
Our related services
Growing with you: CAMHS children looked after and unaccompanied asylum seekers
We work with children and young people up to 18 years, who cannot live with their parents/families and are cared for in Camden and placed in foster care or residential homes
Fitzjohn’s unit
A specialist outpatient service for patients with complex needs including personality disorder.
Adolescent and young adult service
For people between the ages of 14 and 25 who struggle with any emotional or relational aspect of being an adolescent or young adult.
North and South Camden community CAMHS
We specialise in providing help and treatment for children and young people (0-18 years) with emotional health and wellbeing needs.
Family mental health
Supporting the emotional health and wellbeing of children, young people and their families.