So here are the symtoms / signs of Depression and Self harm. Self harm is a common act, I've done it, some of you have done it, and it's not a proper way of dealing with things. I realize it's a way to cope, but all it leaves you with is scars and a fear so big it can devour you whole.
Here are the signs of self harm:
- They wear long sleeves and pants at all times, even in the summer
- They bite their fingernails and surrounding skin to excess, often to the point of bleeding.
- You notice unusual scars or injuries on their body these could be straight lines, or even letters cut or scratched into the arms, legs or other parts of the body. Self injurers do not always cut at the wrist.
- You notice they are missing hair from their head or eyebrows Or they have an elastic band around their wrist to snap.
- Many look for self harm references in song lyrics. There's a poster with a member of this band showing off his bleeding arm – if your friend or teenager has this picture, it's possible that they self harm. Another song to watch out for is 'Hurt' by Nine Inch Nails. It's blatantly about self harm and is very triggering.
- You notice razors missing from the bathroom or you have to buy them more often. Or you may notice a kitchen or craft knife missing. Also watch out for plasters / band aids and first aid supplies being used up very quickly. Your friend or teenager may buy their own 'supplies', so watch out for unusual trips to the pharmacy / chemist.
- You find sharp objects & band aids in their belongings or school bag / purse.
- You find broken glass, razor blade plastic casing or blood stained tissues in the bin / trash can.
- They sit in the same unusual position often, perhaps with a cushion over their arm/leg or they change positions when you walk in the room. This could mean they have visible injuries or scars that they are trying to hide.
- They seem very distant, maybe even seem like they think you don't like them. Even though you enjoy spending time with your loved one / friend they may not think that you do because they are slipping into / have depression
- They create artwork using a lot of red & black lines or words.
- They often use their computer and wipe out the history when they are done. This may be a sign of self harm, anorexia/bulimia and a number of other things.
- You find a stash of pills – maybe pain killers or different kinds of antidepressants in their purse/room.
- Sleeping for very long periods of time…to avoid being awake/alive.
- Reluctance to leave the house or go out with friends.
- Lack of care about hygiene and appearance in my night clothes and not take a shower as often as I should.
- Loss of enthusiasm for favourite interests or hobbies.
- Change in eating habits – skipping meals or over eating for comfort.
Signs of Depression:
- Disturbed thinking
- Feelings of sadness or irritability
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activates once enjoyed
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Feelings of guilt, hopelessness or worthlessness
- Inability to concentrate, remember things or make decisions
- Fatigue or loss of energy - withdrawal
- Restlessness or decreased activity noticed by others
