Why do some people repeatedly injure themselves? How common is this form of self-harm? How can professionals offer appropriate intervention and support to those whose lives are troubled by it, either directly or indirectly? This authoritative and systematic book adopts a holistic approach to the problem of repeated self-injury and the difficult emotions and experiences that it gives rise to. Bringing together theory, research and a wealth of case vignettes, Understanding Repeated Self-Injury examines both the psychological and physical aspects of self-injury. The authors explain how deliberate cutting or burning of the skin is used by many as a way to overcome and temporarily escape bad feeling and thus transcend the limits of their identity. In particular, the book - Presents a unifying model for theory and practice, based on the phenomenology of self-injury - Examines the important role of identity and dissociation in perpetuating self-injury - Considers the wider impact of self-injury on family and friends, and on staff - Addresses treatment strategies and self-help resources Each chapter draws on the authors' considerable clinical experience across a range of contexts, and is written with professionals and trainees particularly in mind. This book is an essential introduction and indispensable resource for those working, or considering to work, in counselling, therapeutic and health care settings where they are or might be confronted with the complexities of self-injury.

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a baffling, troubling, and hard to treat phenomenon that has increased markedly in recent years. Key issues in diagnosing and treating NSSI adequately include differentiating it from attempted suicide and other mental disorders, as well as understanding the motivations for self-injury and the context in which it occurs. This accessible and practical book provides therapists and students with a clear understanding of these key issues, as well as of suitable assessment techniques. It then goes on to delineate research-informed treatment approaches for NSSI, with an emphasis on functional assessment, emotion regulation, and problem solving, including motivational interviewing, interpersonal skills, CBT, DBT, behavioral management strategies, delay behaviors, exercise, family therapy, risk management, and medication, as well as how to successfully combine methods.

1. This book offers an unprecedented perspective on a crucial social and psychological issue in Western countries, where, on average 18% of adolescents and young people say they have self-harmed at least once in their life. 2. While this work is a rigorous academic study, it is written in language comprehensible for any reader. It takes the unique perspective that the issues behind self-harm are more socially driven, aimed at maintaining order within social settings and place. 3. The book keeps readers engaged by making good use of strong personal stories. The text alternates between short and effective analytical sections and long presentation of individual stories and cases, relating excerpts from interviews and observations.

Why do some people repeatedly injure themselves? How common is this form of self-harm? How can professionals offer appropriate intervention and support to those whose lives are troubled by it, either directly or indirectly? This authoritative and systematic book adopts a holistic approach to the problem of repeated self-injury and the difficult emotions and experiences that it gives rise to. Bringing together theory, research and a wealth of case vignettes, Understanding Repeated Self-Injury examines both the psychological and physical aspects of self-injury. The authors explain how deliberate cutting or burning of the skin is used by many as a way to overcome and temporarily escape bad feeling and thus transcend the limits of their identity. In particular, the book - Presents a unifying model for theory and practice, based on the phenomenology of self-injury - Examines the important role of identity and dissociation in perpetuating self-injury - Considers the wider impact of self-injury on family and friends, and on staff - Addresses treatment strategies and self-help resources Each chapter draws on the authors' considerable clinical experience across a range of contexts, and is written with professionals and trainees particularly in mind. This book is an essential introduction and indispensable resource for those working, or considering to work, in counselling, therapeutic and health care settings where they are or might be confronted with the complexities of self-injury.

A complete guide for parents and practitioners on understanding and treating self-injury in autism (ASD). With contributions by top experts, the book explains various forms of self-injury, discusses the treatment options available, including medical, psychiatric and nutritional treatments, and considers the effectiveness of integrated approaches.

"I highly recommend [A Bright Red Scream], because it’s beautifully written and . . . so candid.” —Amy Adams, star of HBO's Sharp Objects in Entertainment Weekly Self-mutilation is a behavior so shocking that it is almost never discussed. Yet estimates are that upwards of eight million Americans are chronic self-injurers. They are people who use knives, razor blades, or broken glass to cut themselves. Their numbers include the actor Johnny Depp, Girl Interrupted author Susanna Kaysen, and the late Princess Diana. Mistakenly viewed as suicide attempts or senseless masochism—even by many health professionals—"cutting" is actually a complex means of coping with emotional pain. Marilee Strong explores this hidden epidemic through case studies, startling new research from psychologists, trauma experts, and neuroscientists, and the heartbreaking insights of cutters themselves--who range from troubled teenagers to middle-age professionals to grandparents. Strong explains what factors lead to self-mutilation, why cutting helps people manage overwhelming fear and anxiety, and how cutters can heal both their internal and external wounds and break the self-destructive cycle. A Bright Red Scream is a groundbreaking, essential resource for victims of self-mutilation, their families, teachers, doctors, and therapists.

Self-harm is increasingly prevalent in our society. But few of us understand why, or know what to do to help ourselves, friends or family in such situations. It can be very isolating. Understanding and Responding to Self-Harm aims to fill this gap, providing practical information and advice for anyone who has an experience of self-harm. Showing the various forms self-harm can take, this book explores the reasons behind it, and offers advice on self-management, support to others, and what services are available. Full of clear, thoughtful advice for those who may be thinking of harming themselves, or have already done so, as well as guidance for families and friends on helpful strategies and responses - and ones to avoid - it uses evidence from research and direct experience to provide an essential resource.