Fear and shame may force women to keep self-injury secret for many years. This means that the true extent of the problem is unknown. Our experience shows that where it is acceptable to talk about, many women reveal that they have self-injured at some time. There are always powerful reasons why a woman hurts herself. For most women it as a way of surviving great emotional pain.
Many people cope with difficulties in their lives in ways which are risky and harmful to themselves.
Some drink or eat too much, smoke, drive too fast, gamble or make themselves ill through overwork or worry. They might do this to numb or distract themselves from problems or feelings they cannot bear to face. Like drink or drugs, hurting herself may help a woman block out painful feelings. Like taking risks or gambling, it may provide danger and distraction. Often women say that self-inujury helps them to release unbearable tension, which may arise from anxiety, grief or anger.