Why do Professionals Self Harm?

help for self harm

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://contact-me/

https://calendly.com/30-minute-clarity-call

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