What is Self-Abuse
The term self-abuse is a generic term that Joy Hertz uses to encompass behaviors often categorized as self-harm, non-suicidal self injury (NSSI), self injury/cutting, or self directed violence.
How does Self-Abuse Present?
Self-abuse most often refers to causing intentional damage to one’s own body, examples include:
- Burning oneself
- Cutting one’s skin
- Head banging or hitting
- Hitting, punching, beating oneself
- Scratching until blood is drawn
However, it may also take on many less obvious forms such as:
- Active Self-Isolation
- Excessive Casual Sex
- Pouring Yourself Out
- Disordered Eating
- Risk Seeking
- Scratching
- Avoidance of Medical Care
- Overspending
- Self-Sabotage
- Substance Abuse
- Compulsive Exercise
I am in a Crisis and Need Help Immediately
Joy Hertz is not a crisis center; if you are currently at risk of placing yourself or someone else in danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
I am in a Crisis and Need Less Urgent Help
If you are looking for less urgent support through a crisis here are some resources you might find useful:
