SELF INJURY AWARENESS DAY
Self-Injury Awareness Day on March 1st each year focuses on increasing education and support on a misunderstood problem.
#SelfInjuryAwarenessDay
When someone causes deliberate self-injury or harm, the action is an indication of emotional distress. According to research from the Journal of American Board of Family Medicine, approximately 4% of Americans self-harm, with a majority of those being college students. The day aims to help friends and family recognize the signs and help those in emotional distress find help. Help and support can be found, though.
Self-injury occurs in many forms, including cutting, scratching, punching, and ingestion of chemicals. Those who self-harm do so for a variety of reasons. Some of them include coping with fear, stress, anxiety, or inducing positive feelings.
People who self-injure may try to hide their injuries. Their clothing may not fit the season. Other signs may include:
- unexplained cuts, burns, or bruises
- inability to handle emotions
- avoiding relationships
- problems with relationships
- issues at work, home, or school
- poor self-esteem
Resources and support are available to help understand and treat self-injury. Seeking a professional consultation is an essential first step.
HOW TO OBSERVE SELF INJURY AWARENESS DAY
- Learn more about self-injury and find help if you need it.
- Organizations around the country will be hosting events with speakers and seminars designed to start a dialogue and provide helpful information.
- Understand that no one has to suffer alone, and there is help.
- Attend an event or organize an event near you.
- Wear orange to show your support.
- Help remove the stigma associated with this and other mental health concerns.
- Open a dialogue by starting the conversation.
- Find resources and support by visiting the Center for Discovery or www.personalizedcause.com.
- Use #SelfInjuryAwarenessDay to share your story on social media.
SELF INJURY AWARENESS DAY HISTORY
Several organizations promote Self-Injury Awareness Day each year to raise awareness about self-injury and how to provide support.
Self Injury FAQ
Q. Is self-harm a mental health disorder?
A. No. But it is often the symptom of concerns.
Q. Is someone who self-harms just trying to get attention?
A. No. When someone self harms they are seeking relief from stress or other anxiety. They usually hide their injuries due to shame.
Q. Are there treatments for those who self-harm?
A. Yes. Treatments usually combine therapy and medication.
March 1st Celebrated History
1872
The United States Congress establishes Yellowstone National Park as the world’s first national park.
1921
The U.S. Patent Office issues patent no. 1,370,316 to Harry Houdini for a diving suit.
1955
Sun Records releases its first single “Drivin’ Slow” by saxophonist Johnny London.
1984
Cyndi Lauper appears on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show making her U.S. television debut. She performs “Girls Just Want to Have Fun.”
March 1st Celebrated Birthdays
Frederic Chopin – 1810
The Polish composer of the Romantic era wrote his first piano composition at the age of 7.
Ralph Waldo Ellison – 1914
In 1953, the American author won the National Book Award for his novel the Invisible Man. Some of his other books include Juneteenth, Flying Home and Trading Twelves.
Harry Caray – 1919
“It might…it could …it is! A home run!” The colorful major league sports announcer started his career with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1945. He’s known for starting the tradition of singing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” at Chicago White Sox games when he began announcing there. He ended his 53-year career with the Chicago Cubs, the rivals of the team where his fantastic career started.
Harry Belafonte – 1927
The “King of Calypso” took an interest in theater and music following the navy. Stardom found Belafonte following his 1953 performance in Carmen Jones. His 1956 album Calypso featured hits such as “Jamaica Farewell” and “Banana Boat (Day-O).” The latter was also featured in the 1988 film, Beetlejuice.
Ron Howard – 1954
Though he guest-starred on several shows, he was introduced to television audiences as Opie on the Andie Griffith Show in 1960. The actor would go on to direct and produce award-winning films including 2002’s A Beautiful Mind and 2017’s The Beatles: Eight Days a Week.
Yolanda Griffith – 1970
For 16 years, the professional basketball played center in the American Basketball League and Women’s National Basketball Association. In 2014, she was elected to the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.
Notable Mentions
Blanche Kelso Bruce – 1841
Donald Slayton – 1924
Archer JP Martin – 1924
Roger Daltrey – 1944
