Each month celebrates, honors, commemorates, or raises awareness for a cause. Even though there are numerous causes that can be identified for March, one brings attention to the eye in particular — Self-Harm Awareness Month.

This is an important topic to be aware of and have at least some knowledge on. Self-harm is the act of purposefully hurting oneself through a variety of ways. With youth, at least 17% are involved in self-harm at least once in their lives. Research also shows that youth from the ages of ten to eighteen are more common to engage in this as well. However, the number varies. Some choose to share their experiences while others don’t.

Overall, self-harm is linked with mental health and it’s a good skill to know that you can get help if you are struggling or know someone in need. You can text or call 988 for help.

Talking to someone is crucial in taking a step forward in the journey and knowing that you are never alone is important. Numerous people have experienced similar situations. What is important is to realize there are counselors, teachers, therapists, family members, friends, or hot lines that you can go to or recommend to a person that may be dealing with a similar problem.

Self-harm awareness month is a time to reflect on the cause and bring it to people’s attention by advocating for those in need and people who may not have the proper knowledge needed in today’s society.