Self-harm and Children/ Young People

Information shared from Liverpool CAMHS

Signs your child might be harming themselves

Thoughts and Feelings

Talking about self- harming or suicide/ suicidal ideas. Expressing feelings or failure, uselessness or loss of hope, self-loathing an expressing a wish to punish themselves, signs of low self-esteem, such as blaming themselves for any problems or thinking they're not good enough for something. 

Behaviours

Changes in eating/ sleeping habits, increased isolation from friends/ family, changes in activity and mood, e.g. more aggressive/ withdrawn than usual, lowering of academic grades, becoming socially withdrawn. Wearing long sleeves, tights/ leggings, trousers even in hot weather. Cuts, scratches or burns that may not be accidental. Changes in appearance, sudden/ drastic weight lost/ gain. Signs of depression, such as low mood, tearfulness or a lack of motivation or interest in anything. Signs they have been pulling out their hair. Bandages on their arms. 

Physical Symptoms

Tired, trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, tummy ache and feeling sick from anxiety and worry. 

Ways you can support your child or young person experiencing self-harm

• Be non-judgemental
• Stay calm and try not to be shocked as you will add shame to the person
• Let the person know that you are there for them and listen attentively 
• Encourage them to talk about their feelings
• Try to have empathy and show interests in their distress
• Let them be in control of their decisions
• Clarify whether there are immediate needs for medical attention
• Remind them of their positive qualities