Does snapping the wrist with a rubber band count as a symptom of depression?

Occasionally snapping the wrist with a rubber band may generally be a way of emotional release, but if it occurs frequently and is accompanied by persistent low mood, it could be associated with symptoms of depression. If any abnormalities are noticed, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Some individuals under high stress or emotional fluctuations may briefly relieve anxiety through mild self-harming behaviors such as snapping the wrist. These behaviors are usually transient and not accompanied by long-term low mood or loss of interest, so they are typically not considered symptoms of depression. However, increasing frequency should be monitored carefully.

If wrist-snapping persists for several weeks or longer and is accompanied by symptoms such as depressed mood, sleep disturbances, and self-criticism, it may indicate a tendency toward depression. At this stage, the behavior may become a dependent coping mechanism for emotional regulation, and professional assessment is necessary to determine whether psychological intervention or medication is needed to prevent worsening symptoms.

In daily life, observe whether the behavior affects normal functioning. If skin injuries, reduced pain tolerance, or continuously deteriorating mood occur, the behavior should be stopped immediately, and support from family members or mental health professionals should be sought to avoid bearing stress alone.