Self-Injurious Behavior

Let your friend know that you care and will listen.
Be supportive and available—spend time doing enjoyable activities together.
Understand that self-harming behavior is often an attempt to regulate emotional pain or sooth oneself, and may be used as a way to try to maintain a certain amount of control.
Encourage your friend to express their emotions, especially anger.
Avoid telling your friend to stop the behavior or making judgmental comments.
Offer to help your friend find help, such as meeting with a counselor.
Recognize that you are not responsible for their behavior and that you can not force your friend to change.
Seek support for yourself by talking to a friend, RA, or counselor.