National Self-Injury Awareness Day - Information for Parents/Carers

Self-harm can start from a young age, it can start from any age. It's important that you look out for the warning signs, some are listed below and i'll also give you some links for more medical information.

If you think/know someone who is self-harming, please let them know that you are there for them as it can mean that they feel alone.

• Hide all sharp objects. Out of sight sometimes means out of mind, not always though so keep a close eye on changes in behaviour.
• If you're close to your son/daughter, notice how they interact with you. Are they acting their normal self - if not, go with your gut feeling and get them help.
• Be understanding and let them know you're there for them. This is the best therapy for someone who is hurting inside.
• I used to refuse to wear short sleeves as this would show the scars so if your child refuses to do the same, get help.
• Telling them to stop will make it worse, try and sit them down and simply ask them what's been going on.

For me, it was very helpful to know there is help out there and that I'm not the only one that self-harms.



Links;

Relate (Teens)
Childline (Children)
Mind (any age)

It's hard for them to speak out, so please be patient if we brush you off and ignore you, we don't mean to.


I hope this helps and good luck to any parent out there who has a child using self-harm as a way of coping.

Miss Catherine x