Abuse and harm are not unique to a particular society or culture—it is witnessed in many areas around the globe. The Youtube channel, “ito can’t sleep,” posted a stop-motion animation which deals with themes of child abuse, sexual abuse, and self-harm, in the titled video “|||||||||||.”

In this short video, we see a young girl enter a washroom with a running bath. Before getting into the bath, she takes a rubber duck and then glances over to the mirror to stare at a bruise on her arm. The scene then cuts to a well-designed paper display where we see what appears to be blood emerge from her genital area, along with several other bruises appearing. Followed by this scene are self-harm lacerations depicted, with a repetitive sequence of cuts inflicted then healed, with the inflicted wounds becoming more severe each time. Now, with the rubber duck on the ground and the blade in her hand, we see a saddened face. The final scene cuts to the clever title of the video, “|||||||||||,” now settling in this title represents the scars from self-harm. 

The rubber duck displayed in the video depicts innocence and youth. This innocence is juxtaposed with the blade used to self-harm, highlighting the vulnerable nature of the individual who seems to be coping with their abuse in painful ways. Additionally, the scars portrayed becoming more severe as time goes on convey emotions of hopelessness, as the individual finds their only outlet of escape is through inflicting harm on oneself. 

Sadly, this beautifully crafted video is a painful reality for many individuals. This reality has no age restriction and can range from young children to older adults all struggling to find a way to cope. When faced with such devastating circumstances at a vulnerable time in one’s life, they may experience extensive emotions of hopelessness and loneliness, with self-harm being what seems to be the only outlet to cope with such an immensely traumatic situation. 

There is an apparent taboo which exists surrounding these topics. It is important to recognize that these circumstances are a reality for many, and rather than turning a blind eye to these issues, we should address and offer support whenever possible. As unbelievable as it may appear in this moment, help is always available and no one should suffer and cope alone. Healing is a tough journey, however, with the correct support, it is possible!

Watch the full video here (extremely recommended): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9u0D0jBpDU

Image Credit:

Feature Image: Photo by Manuel bonadeo on Unsplash