If I self-harm in a visible place, does that mean I'm secretly doing it for the attention?

No it doesn't. Just because you self harm in visible places it does not make you an attention seeker. People who don't understand what it's like automatically assume that it is for attention but don't listen to them as it often makes the issue worse.

Only you can answer this, as people self-harm for different reasons and in different ways. But if you do come to the conclusion that your method is to get attention, then you're reaching out for help. This method isn't necessarily safe or adaptive, but by recognizing this in yourself, you may be ready to find a more productive way to reach out for help or guidance. There are many ways you can ground yourself, bring yourself back into the moment or manage negative cyclical thoughts besides self-harm. Someone who knows a lot about these things can help you find effective ways to deal with the situations that trigger your need to self-harm, without hurting yourself.

NO! Not in the slightest. I know how you must feel, hurting yourself where others can see it. You may perceive yourself only doing so for attention. However, even if I am not sure what brought you to self harm, it is 100% surely not just for wanting a bit of extra attention. There is always a deeper reason for it, and your choice of where to self harm is not just because you want the attention :) Besides, it is always best to open up about your struggles to someone, however that is a whole other subject, Hope this helps and please know that you are always valid and how much/where you self harm does not define your worth