Is scratching self harm?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Intentionally scratching yourself to cope with overwhelming emotions is considered a form of self-harm. Unlike accidental scratches, this behavior is used to manage emotional pain, stress, or distress through physical sensation. It often signals underlying mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, or trauma that deserve attention and care.

If you recognize this pattern in yourself or someone you love, understanding the root cause is the first step toward healing. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you privately explore what may be driving these feelings and guide you toward the right next steps—whether that's speaking with a professional, exploring treatment options, or simply gaining clarity. Taking a few minutes now could make a meaningful difference in your well-being.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Self-harm means hurting yourself on purpose because you feel upset or overwhelmed. When scratching becomes a way to deal with strong emotions, it can be categorized as self-harm. In other words, if you find yourself scratching your skin deliberately and repeatedly to help ease uncomfortable feelings, this behavior is self-harm.

Often, after scratching, a person might feel relief, but later they may feel shame or guilt. This pattern of scratching and emotional release can become a cycle that's hard to break. Many people who engage in this behavior find themselves caught between wanting to stop and feeling unable to cope without it.

Reaching out to friends, loved ones, and mental health professionals can help you discover healthier ways to cope. If you're experiencing concerning symptoms or need guidance on your next steps, try our free AI symptom checker to better understand what you're going through. Learning calm techniques or talking about your feelings can replace the need to scratch, helping you heal both inside and out.

(References)

Nock MK, Prinstein MJ. A functional approach to the assessment of self-mutilative behavior. J Consult Clin Psychol. 2004 Oct;72(5):885-90. doi: 10.1037/0022-006X.72.5.885. PMID: 15482046.
Klonsky ED, Muehlenkamp JJ. Self-injury: a research review for the practitioner. J Clin Psychol. 2007 Nov;63(11):1045-56. doi: 10.1002/jclp.20412. PMID: 17932985.
Gratz KL, Roemer L. The relationship between emotion dysregulation and deliberate self-harm among female undergraduate students at an urban commuter university. Cogn Behav Ther. 2008;37(1):14-25. doi: 10.1080/16506070701819524. PMID: 18365795.

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