Healing the Hurt Within: 3rd edition

by Jan Sutton

Skillfully woven together with empathic insight into the lives and minds of those who self-injure, "Healing the Hurt Within" is replete with the latest developments in the field, informative statistical data, instructive diagrams, carefully selected resources, case studies, expert testimonies, and practical self-help activities. The author's warmth, compassion, and regard for those caught in the cycle of self-injury shines through the pages of this profoundly enlightening and extensively updated 3rd edition. "Healing the Hurt Within" offers: solace, hope, and direction to those who self-injure; guidance to family and friends supporting a loved one who self-injures; and, guidelines to professionals and voluntary caregivers on how to respond to clients that self-injure.

Genres: Psychology, Mental Health, Nonfiction, Mental Illness

512 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1999

Reviews

[Jane Butane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was reluctant to read this book in case it was a bit "touchy feely" but it is fantastic. I am in recovery from addiction as well as self-harm and this book really tied things together and explained various diagnoses well, without being patronising.

The chapters intended to help the friends and families of those dealing with self harm were great too.

This is the best book I have read on this particular area. It takes a more factual approach which is great for me as I have little interest in reading stories of recovery and so on. That being said, there is plenty of space dedicated to testimonials of those that are still suffering and have recovered too. A decent balance!

[Leah Hosie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read as preparation for conducting some research on harm minimisation, this book by Jan Sutton provides an excellent overview on the topic of self-injury, with sections relevant to many who may be affected by it; parents, friends, healthcare professionals and indeed the individual who self harms or has considered it.

The author provides a balanced mixture of academic research alongside service user contributions. There is emphasis in all the right places when it comes to having an understanding of why those that self-harm do what they do, and how they can be helped.

Unfortunately many of the resources noted within are now inaccessible or unavailable, including the author’s own website. It is certainly not her fault that I picked up her book 11 years after it was published, but following up on the information is hit or miss. Equally, much of the research harks back to the original (1999) edition. While still useful, it may frustrate a reader looking for current information.

Summary: Read the book. If this is a topic that affects you personally or professionally, you will find something helpful within.

[Elodie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Feels a bit dated some of the advice on expressing anger is inaccurate. The extracts from people’s own stories was interesting though to see how each personal journey is different and of course the encouragement of person centred values and helping the client recognise triggers is good.

[EG · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful resource for working with clients who self-injure. Non-judgemental in tone and full of useful insights.