Self Injury Awareness Day occurs on March 1, 2019. On this day, people open up about their history of self-harm and work to raise awareness. This annual event is a chance to remove the stigma around this mental illness and spread the word about how prevalent it is. If you’re struggling with both your mental health and addiction, it’s time to seek out a dual diagnosis treatment center.

What Is Self Injury Awareness Day?

On Self Injury Awareness Day, advocates, mental health professionals, and individuals work to educate the public about self-harm and self-injury. One way to do this is through orange awareness ribbons. Some people wear a butterfly on their wrist as a part of the Butterfly Project. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of how widespread self-harm actually is. There are still many stereotypes surrounding this condition. Because of this, events like Self Injury Awareness Day play a vital role in helping to educate the public and raise awareness.

What Is Self-Harm?

Self-harm often happens at the same time as other mental disorders like depression or anxiety. Unfortunately, millions of Americans engage in some type of self-harm. The individual may hit themselves or cut their skin. Scratches and bruises are common types of self-harm. When someone practices self-harm, it is because this behavior relieves tension. It is a way for the person to exercise control over their life and express difficult emotions. For some people, self-harm is a way to escape the numbness of depression or substance abuse. While self-harm hurts the individual physically, it also gives them a moment of feeling something again. Like many mental conditions, self-harm is common among people who have an addiction. When someone suffers from an addiction, they may feel numb or out of control. They are unable to express their emotions in a constructive, safe manner, so self-harm provides an unhealthy outlet. For the patient to recover from their addiction, they need the right dual diagnosis treatment center.

Treating Addiction and Mental Illness

Through Pennsylvania addiction recovery services, individuals can find dual diagnosis care. This kind of program treats the addiction as well as underlying medical conditions at the same time. Some people use addiction to self-medicate for painful emotions. When they choose to become sober, they have to address the addiction and mental disorder if they want to stay clean. On Self Injury Awareness Day, individuals have a fresh chance to take charge of their lives and overcome their addiction. This annual event is a chance for people to raise awareness and work toward a better life. At a treatment program, individuals can find options such as:

At Steps to Recovery, patients can begin their recovery from co-occurring disorders and addictions. Through a blend of family educational involvement, dual diagnosis care, and an intimate environment, clients have a better chance of becoming sober. Our extended pre-admissions process ensures that each client gets the exact blend of treatment options that they need. To learn more about we can help with addictions and co-occurring illnesses, call us today at 267.209.7312.