Self-Harm Beyond the Teenage Years

Audio Version

When you hear the term self-harm, it’s easy to think of teenagers struggling with overwhelming emotions. But the truth is, individuals of any age, including older adults, may engage in self-injurious behaviors.

Self-harm carries a heavy weight of secrecy and shame, which makes it difficult to track accurate statistics. What we do know is that self-injury is not limited to young people. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), self-harm is a risk factor for suicide and can occur at any stage of life.

For seniors, self-harm can be especially dangerous. Injuries may unintentionally become life-threatening due to slower healing, medical complications, or the severity of the wounds.

Understanding Self-Harm in Seniors

Self-harm is typically an intentional act of hurting oneself as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions. While methods vary, injuries are often inflicted on areas of the body that can be easily hidden under clothing.

In older adults, self-injury may have been a long-standing behavior that carried into later life. The longer the habit continues, the higher the risk for serious complications such as:

  • Blood loss 
  • Shock 
  • Infections 
  • Permanent tissue damage 

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) emphasizes that self-harm should never be dismissed, as it can indicate underlying mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or personality disorders.

Why Seniors May Engage in Self-Harm

Aging brings unique challenges, retirement, loss of independence, isolation, medical conditions, or grief. For some, these stressors can fuel depression, anxiety, or intense emotional pain.

Older adults may use self-harm as a misguided attempt to:

  • Regain a sense of control 
  • Distract from emotional distress 
  • Mask deeper feelings of sadness or loneliness 

Over time, this harmful behavior can become a habitual coping mechanism, making professional intervention even more critical.

Warning Signs of Self-Harm in Older Adults

Recognizing self-injury in seniors can be difficult, especially since many feel ashamed and go to great lengths to hide it. Watch for these possible signs:

  • Unexplained cuts, scratches, or burn marks 
  • Wearing clothes inappropriate for the weather (e.g., long sleeves in summer) 
  • Secretive laundry habits or hiding clothing with bloodstains 
  • Avoidance of activities like swimming or physical exams 
  • Changes in sleep or eating patterns 
  • Long, unexplained periods of time spent in the bathroom or bedroom 
  • Withdrawal from family and friends 
  • Increased irritability or mood swings 

If you notice several of these behaviors, it may be time to encourage a conversation about seeking professional support.

Can Counseling Help With Self-Harm?

Yes. Counseling can provide a safe and supportive space for older adults to:

  • Understand the roots of self-harming behaviors 
  • Develop healthier coping strategies 
  • Work through depression, anxiety, PTSD, or grief 
  • Rebuild connection and hope 

Self-harm can feel isolating, but healing is possible. The independently contracted therapists and psychiatric medication management prescribers at Carolina Counseling Services, Fayetteville, NC are experienced in helping individuals of all ages navigate self-injury and emotional pain.

We accept clients with Aetna, Aetna State Healthplan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, Tricare, and many of the Medicaid policies to include Alliance, Carolina Complete Health, WellCare, Healthy Blue, and United Healthcare medical insurance. 

You don’t have to struggle in silence. Call today to schedule your first appointment.

Ebone L. Rocker, LCMHCS, is one of the Owners and Vice Presidents of Carolina Counseling Services. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in the State of North Carolina.