The 22-year old data administrator from Sydney's Inner West regularly works with Southern Community Welfare in helping people cope with the condition.

"There are many reasons people harm themselves,'' Kaytlin said.

"It can include sexual abuse, neglect, anxiety, depression and bullying.''

Kaytlin said self-injury is a coping mechanism. "It's a way people cope with something they don't know how to deal with,'' she said.

But there are other ways to cope, she explained.

"You need to find appropriate coping mechanisms.

"These can include distractions such as the `15-minute rule' whereby you continually distract yourself with other activities in 15-minute intervals until the urge (for self-harm) goes.''

Kaytlin said those who self-harm could often go for long periods, even years, without doing it, then the behaviour can suddenly return.

What's the best way to help someone who is dealing with self harm?