03 Jul Why do Professionals Self Harm?
Many people ask, “Do professionals self-harm?” The answer is yes. Even the most successful people, business leaders, lawyers, doctors, entrepreneurs, celebrities, and athletes can silently struggle with self-harm. Those affected by ADHD and Neurodiversity are at greater risk of self harming behaviours.
No amount of wealth, status, or success protects someone from emotional pain. Behind high-achieving exteriors, many professionals quietly ask themselves, “Why do I self-harm?”
Some reasons include…
- Perfectionism and constant pressure to perform
- Fear of failure or being seen as “not good enough”
- Past trauma or unresolved emotional wounds
- Loneliness and isolation from demanding careers
- Difficulty managing intense emotions
Public figures like Prince Harry, Lady Gaga, and Demi Lovato have bravely spoken about self-harm, proving that mental health challenges can affect anyone.
How Psychology Defines Self-Harm
Psychology typically uses the term Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) to describe self-harm when there’s no intent to die.
Definition (DSM-5):
“The deliberate, self-inflicted damage of body tissue without suicidal intent and for purposes not socially sanctioned.”
So, it’s:
✅ Deliberate – done on purpose, not accidental
✅ Physical injury – damaging tissue like skin, hair, or nails
✅ No intent to die – different from a suicide attempt
✅ Not culturally or socially sanctioned – e.g. body piercing for aesthetic reasons is not self-harm
Aside from the physical cutting and burning of skin, what are other acts of self harm?
- Excessive exercise or restrictive eating
- Overeating (binge eating)
- Substance abuse
- Cutting, scratching, or burning one’s skin
- Engaging in high-risk behaviours
- Even Body Focussed Repetitive Behaviours like hair-pulling, skin-picking, or excessive surgery can be linked to ‘self-harm’
- Promiscuity (when followed by shame)
Important: Many people who self-harm are not suicidal, but self-harm is a sign of significant distress and carries serious risks.
Help for Self Harm: Healthier Coping Strategies
If you’re searching for help for self harm, know that there are healthier, more compassionate ways to cope, including:
- Talking to a trusted therapist or coach
- Practising Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to release emotional overwhelm
- Using hypnotherapy to change subconscious patterns and soothe anxiety
- Journalling or creative expression
- Learning emotional regulation techniques
- Prioritising self-care, rest, and connection
How I Can Help
I specialise in helping high-achieving professionals who feel trapped in cycles of self-harm, anxiety, and emotional distress. My services offer:
- Hypnotherapy for relief from anxiety and harmful patterns
- EFT to gently release trauma and emotional pain
- Safe, compassionate sessions tailored to professionals’ unique pressures
You deserve support and healing.
If you’re wondering, “Why do I self harm?” or searching for help for self harm, please know you’re not alone. Let’s work together so you can find healthier ways to cope, heal, and thrive.
Book a consultation or explore personalised support for you or your loved ones. I am a hypnotherapist Nottingham, offering virtual sessions worldwide.
https://calendly.com/30-minute-clarity-call
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