SELF-HARM

While there can be obvious signs that your child is self-harming, such as exposed cuts and burns, there are some less obvious signs that they may be self-harming.

Look out for unusual marks on your child. Unexplained scars, cuts or even swelling from possibly punching something, can be a sign of a mental health problem. This may become evident if your child declines physical examinations and starts to cover up more.

Other signs include dramatic changes in mood, being secretive, avoiding situations where they have to expose arms or legs, strange excuses for injuries and withdrawing from usual life. However, many of these signs could also be due to a range of other issues or difficulties.

If you discover that your child has been hurting themself, even if they say it was a one-time thing, it’s important to get help. It’s true that young people might experiment with self-injury, especially if they have friends who are doing it, but it’s a serious and dangerous behavior, and you don’t want to ignore what might be a real mental health issue.

Start by listening to your child, so you can begin to understand what is happening and why. Be open to hearing what is happening without judgement and with respect. Let your child know you are there for them. You might find it hard to understand what they’re going through and why they’re reacting in this way, but you can support them.