Is Burning Yourself Self Harm?

Self-harm means hurting your body on purpose to help manage strong emotions or feelings of pain inside. Burning yourself is one way some people choose to express or relieve emotional distress. Studies have shown that some patients purposely create burns in specific patterns on their skin. These self-inflicted burns are done not by accident but as a way to cope with internal struggles or to feel something when emotions feel too heavy. When people engage in this type of behavior, they are trying to deal with sadness, anger, or confusion, and the burns become a signal that they are hurting inside. It is important to understand that self-harming behaviors, like burning, are a sign that someone might be in need of extra help and support. If you or someone you know experiences these urges, talking to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional can make a big difference. There are many healthier ways to deal with hard feelings that don’t hurt your body, and professionals can assist in finding those alternatives. You can always call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.