Self-harm cases have doubled among girls in Sweden since 2015, according to updated statistics covering 2015-2023. The increase was reported as sharp among girls aged 12-15 in 2022, with levels remaining high though slightly plateauing in recent years. Girls and women account for approximately 60 percent of self-harm cases in Sweden, where tens of thousands of people are treated annually for self-harm.
Rebecca Skott, a 31-year-old from Uppsala who previously engaged in self-harm, stated that many girls lack a safe space to express themselves, which she described as frightening. She shared that as a teenager, she carried darkness and sorrow without sharing it, using self-harm as an outlet when psychological struggles became overwhelming. Professional help, support from her surroundings, and replacing the behavior with activities like exercise, walks, and music were crucial for her recovery.
many girls lack a safe space to express themselves, which she described as frightening
She dropped out of school but later completed her education, earning a master's degree. Contact information for support organizations, including psychiatric emergency services and helplines like Mind and Bris, is provided for those in need.
as a teenager, she carried darkness and sorrow without sharing it, using self-harm as an outlet when psychological struggles became overwhelming