Between two and three million people in the United States exhibit some form of self-harm throughout their life. These numbers are increasing rapidly every day. It is estimated that eight million Americans have eating disorders. These statistics are only in the United States. Thousands of teenagers and adults are suffering from these throughout the globe. Self-harming can range from cutting, burning and any other form of purposely hurting yourself. Eating disorders can range from Anorexia, Bulimia and binge eating.
Eating disorders and self-harm are two very important issues that should be taken very seriously but are not spoken about throughout society.
Self-harm usually occurs when a person is dealing with too much emotionally and thinks they must take it out on themselves physically. When this kind of emotional pain occurs, a lot of teenagers and adults don't know where to turn. Most people believe their pain will not be understood by others. They think only option is inflicting physical pain upon themselves. Self-harm is a very serious issue. If a person goes too far with any form of self-harm, it can lead to fatal effects. Cutting is a very common form of self-harm that can lead to infected cuts that can become fatal. People who self-harm usually aren't trying to commit suicide. The main purpose of self-harm is to bring temporary relief to the emotional pain that is being felt by bringing on physical pain instead. Some people self-harm as a form of punishment. Many have a low self-esteem and believe that they deserve to hurt themselves. Other issues that can be caused by a low self-esteem are Eating disorders.
Eating disorders are usually caused by a low self-esteem and a distorted body image. There are several types of eating disorders including Anorexia and Bulimia. The main goals of eating disorders are changing one's body. Eating disorders don't end after the patient gets to the goal though. The goal continues to change as the body changes. Patients with eating disorders are obsessed with the idea of weight. A few pounds are never enough. They are persistent in trying to lose as much weight as they can. Eating disorders are very serious. Losing too much weight can cause an unhealthy body and can even be fatal. Eating disorders can permanently damage the body having lifetime effects on a person.
Most people don't speak about self-harm and eating disorders because they are afraid what others will think of these unspoken causes. The thought of people being in so much pain that they should take it out on themselves is scary for many to think about. People who don't handle emotions well turn to cutting and starving themselves. This leaves others in astonishment. No one can truly understand self-harm and eating disorders until they experience it themselves. In my personal journey I have learned that it is something that remains with you throughout your life. Facing self-harm and eating disorders is a daily battle. The community support is scarce since not much awareness is spread on these topics and most onlookers don't understand what is going on.
Overtime, I believe that awareness for issues like these can be spread. The best way out of an eating disorder or self-harm is to get help. The community needs to create a friendly environment for those who are self-harming and not eating.
For more information about eating disorders and self-harming you can visit these websites NEDA (National Eating Disorder Association) and TWLOHA (To Write love on her Arms)
