Reading time: 4 minutes
Suitable for: Families with children of all ages
Some children purposely hurt themselves and we know the number of children self-harming is on the rise. They may be going through a particularly challenging time and feel unable to cope.
It can be their way to manage overwhelming emotions, or feelings of panic and anxiety. Other children self-harm because they feel numb and struggle to feel anything.
Important messages:
- Self-harming should always be taken seriously
- You are not alone; there is help available
- Many children and young people self-harm
- Children who self-harm do not always attempt suicide
- This is not just a “phase” or attention-seeking behaviour
It can be an incredibly stressful time for you as a parent if your child self-harms. You may worry about doing or saying the wrong thing and making things worse. But if your child is self-harming, it’s a sign that something isn’t right in their life, and they need immediate help.
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