Join us every year in raising awareness, breaking stigma and spreading a message of hope on Self Harm Awareness Day.
Self Harm Awareness Day
Self Harm Awareness Day (SHAD) is marked annually on 1st March to raise awareness, reduce stigma and promote help-seeking around self harm. In the UK and globally, it’s an opportunity for individuals, communities and organisations to speak with one voice in support of those affected. Everyone is encouraged to get involved and help to spread the message.
What Is Self Harm?
Self harm involves intentionally causing harm to oneself, such as cutting, burning, self-hitting, overdosing, or ingesting harmful substances. These behaviours are coping mechanisms – not attention-seeking or ‘crazy’ – but ways of managing intense emotions. Self harm can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background.
Why Do People Self Harm?
People self harm for many reasons, including bullying, academic or work pressures, family conflict, relationship issues, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, identity struggles, bereavement, abuse or addiction. There is no single cause.
What Can Help?
Recovery is possible. Speaking to someone—a friend, relative, GP, counsellor, or support organisation—can be the first step. No one should feel alone and support is available. Organisations like Harmless and Samaritans are here to help.
Get Involved
Self Harm Awareness Day will return again in 2027 – join us in helping to raise awareness, break stigma and spread a message of hope.
Join the SHAD Mailing Listing
To stay in touch with plans for future Self Harm Awareness Days, join the mailing list by completing the form below.
SHAD 2026 Resources
Our theme for SHAD 2026 – Connection Is Coping: Finding Support Together – highlighted how reaching out is a powerful step toward healing. Although Self Harm Awareness Day has now passed, you can still access our 2026 resources below.