How We Treat
Specialized treatment, tailored for youth
Self-harm manifests differently at various life stages. Our providers work closely with you or your child to develop a personalized treatment plan focused on overall well-being.
Self Scheduling
Available to all patients, providing greater flexibility and convenience without the need to make a phone call.
Virtual Appointments
Allowing our Youth-Link providers to see patients in the places where they feel safest and most comfortable.
Secure Messaging
Accessible through our patient portal, enabling patients and legal guardians to securely message their provider at any time.
Specialized Providers
Providers are assigned based on the patient’s age and their specific symptoms, ensuring specialized, tailored care for each individual.
Digital Documentation
Providing a single location for all forms to be completed and accessed. Everything is available in your patient portal.
Extended Benefits
Offering telehealth services, bringing vital mental health care to Arizona communities that lack local access to adolescent psychiatric support.
Condition
Self-Harm
Our dedicated providers collaborate with individuals to create customized treatment plans for self-harm, incorporating behavioral strategies and, when necessary, medication management. Our aim is to support individuals in developing healthier coping mechanisms, managing their emotions, and fostering a path toward recovery and well-being.
What is Self-Harm?
Self-harm, often referred to as self-injury, is the act of deliberately hurting oneself as a way to cope with emotional distress, anxiety, or overwhelming feelings. Common methods of self-harm include cutting, burning, or hitting oneself. This behavior can be a way for individuals, particularly adolescents, to express their pain or to exert control over their emotional state.
Approximately 15-20% of adolescents engage in self-harm at some point during their teenage years. It’s important to note that self-harm is often associated with underlying mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, or trauma, and addressing these root causes is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.
Types of Self-Harm
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Cutting: Using sharp objects like knives, blades, or glass to create cuts on the skin. This is one of the most recognized forms of self-harm.
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Burning: Applying heat to the skin, often using items like cigarettes, matches, or hot objects to create burns or scalds.
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Scratching: Deliberately scratching the skin to cause pain or damage, which can lead to visible marks or scabs.
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Hitting or Banging: Physically striking oneself against hard surfaces or using objects to inflict pain (e.g., punching walls or using a belt).
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Hair Pulling: Known as trichotillomania, this involves pulling out one’s hair, which can lead to noticeable hair loss and distress.
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Ingesting Harmful Substances: Taking substances that can cause harm, such as overdosing on medications or consuming toxic materials.
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Self-neglect: Engaging in behaviors that can lead to harm, such as refusing to eat or taking part in risky activities without regard for safety.
Symptoms of Self-Harm
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Physical Signs:
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Unexplained cuts, burns, or bruises on the body, especially in areas that are usually covered.
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Scars or healing wounds from previous self-harm incidents.
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Wearing long sleeves or pants, even in warm weather, to conceal injuries.
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Behavioral Signs:
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Increased withdrawal from friends and family or a decline in social interactions.
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Changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
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Avoidance of situations that may lead to emotional stress or triggers.
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Emotional Symptoms:
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Intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness.
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Increased anxiety or emotional distress.
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Difficulty managing anger or frustration.
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Coping Mechanisms:
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Expressing feelings of guilt or shame related to self-harming behaviors.
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Using self-harm as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions or situations.
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Verbal Indicators:
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Talking about feeling like a burden or expressing thoughts of worthlessness.
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Mentioning a desire to "feel something" or to release emotional pain through physical means.
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Risky Behaviors:
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Engaging in reckless or self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse or dangerous activities.
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How Our Service Works
Comprehensive virtual care guiding patients at every turn, why virtual care is right for you or your child
Telepsych
Psychiatry Mobile Dashboard
Secure Messaging
Telepsych
1:1 Telehealth Sessions
Schedule an appointment and access your mental health provider on any device to discuss your symptoms or treatment.
Everything In One Place
Enjoy full access to your appointments, bills, and medical documents through our online service
Comprehensive Treatment
Say goodbye to the hassle of getting the care you need. We provide a seamless and comprehensive experience for your diagnosis and treatment.
Secure Messaging
Have concerns during treatment? Reach your provider anytime with secure messaging for peace of mind.