Can self harm be considered a coping mechanism?

I suppose that some people might feel like it's a good coping mechanism, but it is definitely not a healthy way to cope with whatever problems they may be facing.

Self harm is a coping mechanism in and of itself. However, it is not the healthiest coping mechanism. Right now for you it may be what you need to cope with everyday life. Seeking out other help and ways to cope is ideal. Seeing a doc or therapist, talking to friends, or reaching out to teachers are great ideas. A doctor or therapist will be able to help with different coping mechanisms that are healthier than self harm. Take care of yourself and know that you are valued

Self harm is technically a coping kechanism, but like most coping mechanisms, it accomplishes nothing but short term relief. Unlike most coping mechanisms, it could lead to you seriously harming yourself. If you are having trouble with self harm, you need to get help as soon as you can before anything awful happens.

Absolutely not. I've been self harming since I was 10 years old. I'm 15 now (turning 16 this month) and I'm still doing it. its a disease and its incurable and it's got to be controlled. it encourages too much bacteria, too many risks, and overall, just not healthy.

yes. it can very much be considered a coping mechanism, but it is not a healthy mechanism and if you are suffering with it or know someone who is then you should reach out and get some help.

Yes, self harm is a coping mechanism. It is considered a negative (or maladaptive) coping mechanism. Negative coping mechanisms will usually give immediate emotional and/or stress relief in the short term, but will cause more problems in the longer term. For example, self harm can be an emotional release in the short term, but more stress is caused in the long term with feeling the need to hide scars. Positive coping mechanisms on the other hand help to relieve stress in both the short and long term. Some examples of positive coping mechanisms would be colouring, journaling, taking a bath/shower or exercising.