Better understanding teens who are self-harming

There are a lot of factors that can lead to teens starting to hurt themselves. It is one of the warning signs of suicide. However, not all teens who self-harm are suicidal. If you have a friend, relative, or someone you know who you think is causing self-injury they need help including seeing a licensed therapist. They might need additional help from a doctor or a psychiatrist. The key is helping them find better ways to cope. It is not a fad or phase all teens go through and it should always be taken seriously. If ignored there is the risk of suicide and mental health can spiral down as they continue to feel worthless and ashamed.

 

Teens can recover

It is not a lifelong issue as long as they get help. It is about learning how to manage their emotions more healthily. When they do, for those who were suicidal it is effective for youth suicide prevention. The teen needs to want to stop and get help and it does take effort and work. When someone is low and thinks it is the only option for them to manage the pain, it can be hard to get motivated to change. With a therapist, they can get the support and skills they need. Eventually, they become more confident, have better emotional support and coping abilities, and are prepared should there be a relapse.

 

Approaching your child about if they are self-harming

Here is a look at the best way to approach your child if you think they are hurting themselves;

 

1. First of all, it is never a good idea to ignore the concern and hope it stops, teens who have started to hurt themselves do not often stop by themselves. Address the worry as soon as you have it especially since this could be about youth suicide prevention.
2. Remember not to push your own emotions onto them, this is about helping them. If you are too full of anger, guilt or sadness right then, wait until your emotions are more manageable.
3. At the point where you feel more able to stay calm, tell them what you have noticed and about your worries. Use blunt language and be clear.
4. Listen to them, and validate how they are feeling, even if you do not agree with how they are managing those feelings. Do not judge them, try not to interrupt them by giving your responses after they are done. Stay calm and offer them comfort.
5. If they are not ready to talk, or they do a little but not much, be patient and do not pressure them. Tell them you are there whenever they are ready to try again.
6. Start the job of getting them help from a licensed therapist.

 

Conclusion

Self-injury does not mean they are suicidal but it is one of the warning signs of suicide. If you think your teen is suicidal call the suicide and crisis line. If you think they are in immediate danger take them to the local ER straight away.