Health Upp Not all cries for help are obvious. While depression is often linked to sadness and isolation, it can also lead to risky, impulsive behavior that puts safety and well-being in danger. Some people struggling with depression do not withdraw—they push the limits, engaging in reckless actions that may seem exciting or rebellious from the outside. But beneath the surface, these behaviors are often a sign of deep emotional distress, a way to escape overwhelming feelings or cope with emotional numbness.
People struggling with depression may take dangerous risks because they feel numb or detached from consequences. From substance abuse and reckless driving to self-injury and unsafe relationships, these behaviors can offer temporary relief but often lead to greater harm.
Understanding how depression fuels self-destructive decisions is the first step in breaking the cycle. Recognizing the warning signs, addressing non-suicidal self-injury, and seeking support can make a difference. Help is available, and for those with Medicaid, therapy may be fully covered.
How Depression Fuels Reckless Behavior
Depression affects impulse control and decision-making, making it easier for people to engage in activities that jeopardize their well-being. Research shows that around 30 percent of individuals with major depressive disorder attempt suicide (Psychology Today, 2024), while many others engage in risky behaviors that could be fatal, even if unintentional.
Some of the most common reckless behaviors linked to depression include:
- Risky confrontations: Picking fights or provoking dangerous situations
- Unprotected sex or dangerous encounters: Engaging in unsafe sexual behavior
- Speeding or reckless driving: Taking unnecessary risks on the road
- Substance abuse: Using alcohol or drugs, whether prescribed or illicit, as an escape
- Compulsive gambling or spending: Engaging in high-risk financial behaviors
- Non-suicidal self-injury: Cutting, burning, or harming oneself as a way to numb emotional pain
These behaviors are not random but are influenced by underlying cognitive and neurological dysfunctions associated with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Research has shown that individuals with MDD often experience negative cognitive bias, motivational deficits, indecision, and impaired risk evaluation, all of which contribute to poor decision-making and an increased likelihood of engaging in risky behavior (Lu, Zhao, Wei, & He, 2024).
Neuroimaging studies further highlight that the brain regions involved in risky decision-making—such as the left ventral striatum and right prefrontal cortex—are also impaired in MDD (Lu et al., 2024). These areas are responsible for evaluating risk and reward, meaning individuals with MDD may process consequences differently than those without depression. This overlap in brain dysfunction helps explain why people with MDD frequently engage in self-harm, substance abuse, and other dangerous behaviors.
Understanding Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
Non-suicidal self-injury, or NSSI, refers to deliberate self-harm without the intent to die. This behavior includes cutting, burning, scratching, or hitting oneself as a way to cope with emotional pain. While distinct from suicide attempts, research shows that NSSI can increase the risk of suicidal behavior by reducing a person’s natural fear of pain and injury (Klonsky, Victor, & Saffer, 2024).
For many, self-injury is a response to overwhelming emotions, providing temporary relief from distress. Studies have shown that it can lower negative emotions, induce calmness, or serve as a form of self-punishment (Klonsky et al., 2024). Some individuals use NSSI as a way to externalize emotional pain, while others see it as a way to exert control over their suffering.
Research into self-injury has advanced significantly in the past two decades. Early studies on NSSI were largely theoretical, but empirical research has now provided deeper insights into why people engage in self-harm. Studies have shown that the most common reason is to temporarily alleviate overwhelming negative emotions, with many individuals reporting a sense of calm and relief after engaging in NSSI (Klonsky et al., 2024). Additionally, research suggests that over half of individuals who self-injure do so as a form of self-directed anger or self-punishment. This aligns with findings that link self-criticism and emotional distress to higher rates of NSSI.
While some people may use self-injury to communicate distress or influence others, research has shown that this is not the primary motivation for most individuals. Instead, NSSI is largely intrapersonal, meaning it is focused on managing emotions rather than seeking external validation. This has led to the development of validated tools and models to better understand and address self-injury in clinical settings (Klonsky et al., 2024).
Despite common misconceptions, NSSI is not always a sign of borderline personality disorder, nor is it solely attention-seeking. It is most often performed in private and linked to deep emotional distress. Understanding the motivations behind NSSI is crucial in providing effective treatment and preventing escalation into suicidal behavior.
Getting the Help You Deserve: How to Access Therapy in Colorado
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, but in Colorado, mental health care has become more accessible than ever. With growing awareness of the need for affordable therapy, state and federal programs have expanded options for individuals seeking professional support. Whether through private practices, community mental health centers, telehealth services, or nonprofit organizations, finding a therapist is easier than many people realize.
In recent years, Colorado has enacted laws to improve access to mental health care. The Behavioral Health Recovery Act (HB21-1258) expanded coverage for therapy, crisis services, and substance use treatment. Additionally, the Colorado Option Health Insurance Plan ensures more people have access to affordable mental health care, and the I Matter program provides free therapy sessions for youth.
For those concerned about cost, Medicaid covers mental health services, including therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-injury. Many therapists in Colorado that accept Medicaid provide care through community clinics, behavioral health centers, and private practices, making professional support more widely available. Colorado Crisis Services also provides 24/7 support through walk-in centers, a statewide hotline, and mobile crisis units for those in urgent need.
Therapists trained in reckless behavior and self-injury can help clients break destructive patterns, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and regain a sense of control. No one should have to navigate mental health challenges alone. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available—and in Colorado, more resources than ever are in place to ensure you can get the care you need.
A Simple and Supportive Process
Getting help should feel accessible and stress-free. Here is how to make it easy
✔ Reach out for a consultation. Discuss concerns and ask questions
✔ Verify Medicaid coverage. Benefits can be checked and eligibility confirmed
✔ Start therapy with a trusted professional. Learn tools to manage emotions, reduce impulsive behaviors, and regain a sense of control
Take the First Step Toward Healing
If you or someone you love has been struggling with reckless behavior or self-injury, help is available. Therapy is more accessible than you think, and support is within reach.
Contact a mental health professional today to learn more about your options.
References
- Klonsky, E. D., Victor, S. E., & Saffer, B. Y. (2024). Nonsuicidal Self-Injury: What We Know, and What We Need to Know. Clinical and Health Psychology Journal.
- Lu, J., Zhao, X., Wei, X., & He, G. (2024). Risky decision-making in major depressive disorder: A three-level meta-analysis. International Journal of Clinical and Health Psychology, 24(1), 100417.
- Psychology Today (2024). “It’s hardly a coincidence that around 30 percent of those with major depression disorder end up taking their lives.”