Is My Child Engaging In Self-Harm?

Does your child avoid activities where legs, arms or torso can be seen, or wear clothes that cover arms and legs?

Does your child show changes in sleeping or eating patterns?

Does your child start skipping school or show a decline in performance at school?

Does your child lose interest in activities it usually enjoys?

Does your child hide objects like razor blades, knives, lighters, and matches?

Has your child stopped caring about their appearance?

Does your child display heavy mood changes?

Does your child have injuries that they can’t or won’t explain?

While it is unlikely that your child is engaging in self-harm, he or she may be displaying one or two signs related to it. Self-harm is when people deliberately hurt themselves as a way of coping with emotions and deep distress. Self-harm needs to be taken very seriously, as it can become a habit or addiction. When it happens repeatedly, it can lead to serious injuries and even accidental death. If you feel your child is struggling with something, don’t hesitate to talk with him or her and don’t be afraid to reach out to a mental health professional. In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, there seem to be no reasons to be concerned.

Based on your answers, your child is displaying some signs related to engaging in self-harm. Self-harm occurs when someone deliberately hurt themselves as a way of coping with intense distress or strong emotions. People who engage in self-harm are at increased risk of attempting suicide. Repeated self-harm can lead to serious injuries and accidental death. Self-harm needs to be taken very seriously. Therapy can help your child understand why they are self-harming, what triggers self-harming and to learn positive ways of managing strong emotions. Early intervention is crucial.

Unfortunately, your child is displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who engage in self-harm. Young people who self-harm often try to hide it; they are ashamed of their behavior and worried that people will be angry at them or reject them. Self-harm needs to be taken very seriously, as it can become a habit or addiction. When it happens repeatedly, it can lead to serious injuries and even accidental death. Therapy can help your child understand why they are self-harming, what triggers self-harming and to learn positive ways of managing strong emotions. Early intervention is crucial.