The latest installment of the South Texas Health System’s “Let’s Talk Mental Health” series will raise awareness about self-harm and other dangerous coping mechanisms and offer healthy ways to address those behaviors
For many, dangerous coping mechanisms like self-injury are difficult to understand because it goes against the natural human instinct of self-preservation. They can’t imagine being in a state of mind where they would hurt themselves, so they can’t really fathom why anyone else would. That lack of understanding, unfortunately, creates a stigma of shame and embarrassment, making it hard for people who self-harm to get the critical help they need.
Several mental health conditions are associated with self-harming behavior, including borderline personality disorder, depression, eating disorders, anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder.
While any person can self-harm, the largest percentage of people who engage in self-injury are teenagers and young adults. Approximately 17% of teenagers admit to at least one episode of self-harm, according to the National Alliance on Mental Health.
To help raise awareness about the hazards of self-harm and other dangerous coping behaviors, South Texas Health System Behavioral will host a virtual discussion entitled “Let’s Talk Dangerous Coping Mechanisms.” Part of its monthly webinar series aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness, the free online event will feature the participation of South Texas Health System Behavioral’s Director of Nursing Kevin Trussell, MSN, RN.
Taking place via Zoom and live through South Texas Health System’s Facebook page on Thursday, March 2, the online seminar will shine a spotlight on the myths and danger surrounding coping behaviors like self-harm and highlight positive steps one can take to change those behaviors.
Who: South Texas Health System Behavioral
What: Let’s Talk Dangerous Coping Mechanisms
When: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 2
Where: Online via Zoom on through STHS’ Facebook page
Pre-registration recommended, not required.
Zoom Meeting ID: 922 7497 9896
Passcode: 533160
