The term ‘self-harm’ or ‘self-injury’ usually refers to someone causing themselves harm. Self-harm is often a physical
response to emotional pain and/or intolerable experiences. It can also include self-neglect and engaging in risk
taking behaviour.
Self-harm has a function for every individual who self-harms and stopping is not always straightforward even when they
may want to.
Self-harm is behaviour that is done deliberately to harm oneself. At least 10% of adolescents report having self-harmed.
Self-harm can include, for example:
- self-cutting
- taking an overdose
- hitting or bruising
- intentionally taking too little or too much medication
- burning
- hanging
- suffocation
Below you will find links to information aimed at supporting families to support children who are self-harming.
Coping with Self Harm Brochure_FINAL_copyright
Supporting Your Child – Self Harming Guide for Families Papyrus
Self-Harm & Mental Health | Guide For Parents | YoungMinds
Understanding Child Self-Harm & Keep Them Safe | NSPCC
