Guardiola and self-harm: what is behind self-aggression

The phrase generated such controversy that Guardiola himself later had to clarify through the social network with mental health problems.

It is worth clarifying, therefore, and as psychologist Ana Belén Medialdea points out, that there is a clear difference between people who frequently self-harm and those who end up damaged as a result of situations of tension, nervousness or even lack of control.

Thus, the psychologist explains that the main difference lies in the intentionality and function of the act.

Thus, in the case of the self harm The psychologist explains that they usually have an emotional purpose. “People who self-harm seek to relieve intense internal discomfort, either to manage emotions such as sadness, anxiety or emotional emptiness,” he clarifies. In these cases, the expert explains that self-harm becomes a repetitive pattern that acts as an emotional regulation strategy.

As for the nerve or pressure related damage What happens, as Medialdea clarifies, is that it is more of an impulsive act, often unconscious, that occurs in a moment of high tension, such as scratching or biting oneself during an episode of stress, for example. The intention in this type of situation is not to deliberately harm oneself, but release built up pressurealthough it may have physical consequences.

In both cases, as the psychologist suggests, emotions play a crucial role, but the background and frequency distinguish one behavior from the other.

In what cases is self-harm common?

What is usually behind these types of actions? The psychologist explains that self-harm in contexts of stress is usually a response to emotional overflow. And it reveals that behind this behavior there may be:

– Need to relieve tension: Physical pain can momentarily divert attention from emotional suffering.

– Lack of emotional regulation tools: The person may not know how to manage their stress in a healthy way.

– Sense of control: In high-pressure situations, harming yourself can give you a false sense of control over something (your own body) when everything else seems uncontrollable.

– This type of behavior does not necessarily imply a mental disorder, but it does reflect a difficulty in managing stress effectively.

It occurs in very demanding profiles

Self-harm is very common in demanding profiles. According to Medialdea, it is something that is often seen in consultation and occurs in people who self-harm to release tension because, in some way, these practices also induce a certain “forbidden pleasure”, such as biting their nails, removing their ‘hangnails’, or even eating to vomit…

In this sense, the psychologist explains that there are certain traits or situations that increase the probability of their arising:

– Highly self-demanding people: Those who put excessive pressure on themselves to perform and can somatize the stress.

– Impulsive people: Those who have difficulty stopping and thinking before acting, reacting physically to tension.

– Those who repress their emotions: People who do not express or process their emotions in a healthy way can accumulate tension until it is released inappropriately.

– High-pressure contexts: Professionals such as coaches, athletes or people in leadership positions may be more exposed to these behaviors due to the constant demand for results.

In which cases does psychological consultation require?

Some of the warning signs that may lead you to think that you should consult a psychologist are:

– Frequency: If the damage occurs repeatedly or becomes a habit.

– Intensity: When the injuries are serious or go beyond accidental scratches.

– Emotional impact: If the person feels ashamed, guilty or unable to control these impulses.

– Isolation: When you avoid talking about the topic or begin to hide the marks.

In this sense, the psychologist explains that it is measured by evaluating the impact on the general well-being and functionality of the person. For example, if these behaviors affect your work, social or emotional performance, it is time to seek professional help.

How are these cases treated?

The treatment applied by Ana Belén Medialdea is based on brief strategic therapy, which focuses on interrupting the problematic pattern and providing practical tools. Some steps include:

– Identify how the problem is working: Understand what triggers the damage and what reinforces it.

– Create functional alternatives: Develop concrete strategies to channel stress, from the strategic brief therapy model we have a series of paradoxical prescriptions that allow us to change the “sedative or pleasurable” effect that this behavior may have into something that is “tortuous.” » so that the person can channel stress in a more functional way, without injuring or damaging themselves.

– Work with underlying emotions: Help the person recognize and express their emotions before they reach the point of overflowing.

– Specific interventions: For example, if self-harm is perceived as a form of control, the person is taught to regain that feeling of control in a healthy way.

As for the strategies that can help calm nerves in tense situations and thereby avoid getting hurt, emotional regulation techniques stand out:

– Spaces for emotional relief: Talking to someone you trust or writing down what you feel can reduce the need to express it physically.

– Self-care routines: Establishing breaks to rest, practicing moderate exercise and taking care of your diet helps prevent the accumulation of stress.

– Plan for moments of stress: If a tense situation is anticipated, preparing mentally and physically can reduce the impact.

The important thing, according to the psychologist, is to learn to recognize internal alarm signals before reaching the point of self-harm, adopting adaptive strategies. And, above all, go to a professional so that they can study the problem and help that person with the specific technique that adapts to each case.