In recent years, self-harm has become one of the most common dysfunctional coping mechanisms when dealing with stress, especially among the teen population. This study focuses on the connection between self-harm and self-esteem, which, according to existing literature, is reciprocal. Using fenomenological qualitative method of research and in-depth semi-structured interviews, we obtain data from five female participants, aged between 18 and 30 years, with direct experience of self-injurious behavior. This was also one of the conditions for participating in the reseach. Gathered answers show an important connection between self-harm and low self-esteem, which mostly originates in the primary family. In some cases, eating disorders and other signs of mental disorders are also mentioned. Data analisys shows a big importance of family support for the participants in time of distress. Great fear of consulting professionals and general distrust are present. The paper also presents the impact of COVID-19 on participants, who were still engaging self-harm behaviors during that time. Gathered results confirm findings in existent literature on both main subjects. They also stress the importance of awareness, early detection and appropriate treatment for self-harm behavior and low self-esteem in young adults. Self-harm, especially, is still subjection to many stereotypes. When researching, we encountered some trouble and potential drawbacks. Only women were participating in the interviews, and we only referred to their answers. Therefore, the findings can not be generalized to the whole population.
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