Someone who self-injures is usually deeply distressed and needs understanding and support and should seek professional help.

A GP will usually refer them to a psychiatrist or a psychotherapist for an assessment. There are few clinical therapists specialising in self-injury, so referral is often to therapists who deal with abuse or whose expertise is in eating disorders.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is ideally used to explore feelings before the individual self-injures, with the aim of finding other ways to express the build-up of feelings, emotions and tensions. The causes of low self-esteem are explored.

Psychotherapy may be offered to explore any history of sexual, physical or mental abuse. Also, advice is given on other outlets for the build up of tension and tips for how to keep safe if the person is continuing to self-harm.

Successful treatment depends on teaching the individual new ways of coping with emotions and feelings. People self-injure for all sorts of reasons, so a large part of recovery involves helping to recognise the individual triggers. Self-help groups can also be helpful.

Hospitalisation is only used as a last resort if the individual is at a risk of severe self-injury or suicide.