is it illegel to self harm?

[Darkwings44]

I asked a person this and she said yes and that the person who does that would go to a psych ward where they will be in a straight jack.... I don't know if she telling me the truth or not...….

[Pomegranate]

No, it isn’t illegal to self harm. And most people who self harm do not end up on psych wards, and psych wards also don’t use straight jackets anymore.

[Darkwings44]

oh ok! :) thank you! *hugs you*

[Auror.]

it's not illegal. but in terms of medical folks and paramedics/emts in particular, self harm is still very much a grey area. if you turn up at a medical hospital or have emergency services come to you after having self harmed, they are unfortunately very likely to assume you tried to commit suicide, and treat you as such until you've had a psychiatrist evaluate you. they don't generally tend to understand the difference between self harm and suicide.

good providers can usually take the time to understand the difference, but in emergency situations most medical folks won't be qualified to do that. which sucks, but does make sense. it's better to see trained mental health professionals if you can.

so no it's not illegal. but it's also not exactly something worth condoning either.

[Darkwings44]

thank you for replying!! *hugs you*

[Bellatrix]

It is, however, illegal to carry most blades on your person, even if they are only for yourself.

[Auror.]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bellatrix

It is, however, illegal to carry most blades on your person, even if they are only for yourself.

Yes, that is a very good point. Blades are considered weapons and carrying a weapon can get you into a lot of trouble.

[Pi.R^2]

I'm going to close this thread and have removed several posts. The original question has been answered and further discussion was at risk of coming across as tip-sharing and encouraging people to find ways to 'bend' the law.