Eating disorder clinic The Renfrew Center has published findings from a study of its patients showing that nearly half--44 percent--admit to having self-harmed. Nine percent of those reported engaging in self-harm behaviors including cutting, bruising and burning at least once a day.
"Like an eating disorder, self-harm is an unhealthy way to cope with overwhelming emotions," says Kim Johnson, PsyD, Clinical Supervisor and Therapist for The Renfrew Center of Philadelphia. "Self-harm is a red-flag warning that someone is in emotional pain that should be addressed with a mental health professional immediately."
Read more: Study Shows Nearly Half of Eating Disorder Patients Self-Harm
See also: Eleven Percent of Girls Report Self-Harm