Self-harm is a significant mental health concern that can affect teenagers, often serving as a coping mechanism for emotional distress.

What Is Self-Harm?

Self-harm refers to the intentional act of causing physical injury to oneself, typically as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions. Self-harm is often a symptom of deeper emotional issues, rather than a condition in itself. It can take many forms, including cutting, burning, hitting, or scratching the skin.

Common Reasons for Self-Harm

Teenagers may engage in self-harm for various reasons.

YoungMinds, a UK-based mental health charity, highlights several common factors:

• Emotional Release: Self-harm may provide a temporary release from intense feelings of sadness, anger, or anxiety.

• Sense of Control: It can offer a sense of control when other aspects of life feel overwhelming or uncontrollable.

• Expression of Pain: For some, self-harm is a way to externalise internal pain, making their distress visible.

• Numbness: It can also be a way to feel something when experiencing emotional numbness or dissociation.

Signs and Symptoms of Self-Harm

Recognising the signs of self-harm is crucial for early intervention.

The Mental Health Foundation lists several indicators that a teenager might be self-harming:

• Physical Signs: Unexplained cuts, bruises, burns, or scars, often on the wrists, arms, thighs, or torso.

• Behavioural Changes: Wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather, secretive behaviour, or withdrawing from social interactions.

• Emotional Distress: Noticeable changes in mood, increase irritability, sadness, or anxiety. 

Impact of Self-Harm

Self-harm can have severe physical and emotional consequences. It can lead to infections, permanent scarring, and accidental severe injury. Emotionally, self-harm often reinforces feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation, creating a harmful cycle that is difficult to break. Self-harm is often associated with other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

Addressing Self-Harm

Addressing self-harm requires a compassionate and comprehensive approach.

The NHS recommends several strategies:

• Open Communication: Encourage open, non-judgemental conversations about feelings and experiences. Let the person know that you are there to listen and support them. 

• Professional Help: Seek professional help from a GP or mental health specialist who can provide an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. Therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can be effective in addressing the underlying emotional issues.

• Developing Coping Strategies: Help your teenager develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress and emotions, such as exercise, creative activities, or relaxation techniques.

Supporting a Teenager Who Self-Harms

Parents play a crucial role in supporting a teenager who self-harms.

The NSPCC suggests:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about self-harm to understand what your teenager is experiencing and how best to support them.

• Stay Calm: Respond to self-harm with calmness and empathy, avoiding reactions of shock or anger that might exacerbate feelings of shame.

• Encourage Professional Support: Encourage your teenager to engage with mental health professionals and adhere to their treatment plan.

• Provide a Safe Environment: Create a safe and supportive home environment where your teenager feels valued and understood.

When to Seek Emergency Help

If a teenager's self-harm results in severe injury of if they express suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to seek immediate help.

Contact emergency services or a crisis helpline.

The NHS provides resources for urgent mental health support, including helplines and emergency care.

Conclusion

Understanding and addressing self-harm is vital for promoting the mental health and well-being of teenagers. By recognising the signs, fostering open communication, and seeking professional help, parents can play a key role in supporting their teenagers through this challenging issue.

For more information and support, visit NHS, YoungMinds, and NSPCC.