Finding Safer Ways to Cope and Heal

Finding Safer Ways to Cope and Heal

Self-harm is often a way to manage overwhelming emotions, numb emotional pain, or create a sense of control in moments that feel unbearable. While the act can bring temporary relief, it is followed by guilt, shame, and isolation. Many people who self-harm hide their injuries, fearing judgment or misunderstanding from others, which can deepen feelings of loneliness and hopelessness.

At R&R Health, we want you to know that self-harm is not a sign of weakness or attention-seeking. It is a coping strategy that has developed over time, usually in response to trauma, intense emotions, or difficulty expressing feelings in healthier ways. Our goal is to help you replace self-harm with safe, effective coping skills and to address the underlying issues that drive the behavior.

Why Self-Harm Happens

Self-harm is often linked to other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. It can also be related to unresolved trauma, intense stress, or feelings of emptiness.

Some common reasons people engage in self-harm include:

While these reasons can feel powerful in the moment, they do not address the root cause, and the cycle of harm can continue without intervention.
Why Self-Harm Happens

Our Approach to Treating Self-Harm Behavior

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Comprehensive, Judgment-Free Assessment

We start by creating a safe space for you to share your experiences openly. We listen without judgment to understand your triggers, emotional struggles, and the role self-harm has played in your life.

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Evidence-Based Therapies

We use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to teach distress tolerance and emotional regulation skills, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to change harmful thought patterns, and trauma-focused therapies like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address unresolved pain.

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Holistic Healing Opportunities

To promote emotional stability and self-expression, we integrate surf therapy, yoga, breathwork, art therapy, music therapy, reiki, equine-assisted activities, and outdoor adventures. These activities provide new outlets for stress relief and help build self-worth through positive, life-affirming experiences.

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Crisis Planning and Support Systems

We work with you to develop a personalized safety plan, identify early warning signs, and establish a strong network of support both during and after treatment.

The Transformation We Aim to Create

Our goal is to help you replace harmful behaviors with skills that support long-term emotional health. You will learn how to manage intense feelings without turning to self-harm, communicate your needs in healthy ways, and develop a deeper sense of self-compassion.

Clients who complete treatment often report feeling more in control of their emotions, more connected to others, and more hopeful about the future.

Your Path to Recovery Starts Now

You do not have to face this alone. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, our admissions team will guide you every step of the way.