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Recognize the signs and symptoms of self-harm in teens
Learn to have open conversations with your teen
Treatment options for self-harming teens
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Parents of teens that self-harm
As a parent or guardian, worrying about your child’s well-being is natural. And if you’re here, it’s likely because you’re concerned that your teen is already harming themself or their potential for self-harm. First and foremost, please know that you’re not alone. Many parents and guardians have faced similar concerns, and help and support are available. We want to provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to help your child. We’ll help you recognize the signs of self-harm, advise you on how to talk to your teen about it, and inform you about the available treatment options. Our goal is to support you in supporting your teen’s mental health and well-being. Together, we can work towards healing and hope.
What is teenage self-harm?
Teenage self-harm is a serious issue that affects many adolescents. Self-harm refers to deliberately causing harm to oneself, typically through cutting, burning, scratching, or hitting. It’s important to note that self-harm is not a suicide attempt but rather a coping mechanism that some teens use to deal with intense emotional pain.
Self-harm is often a sign of underlying mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or low self-esteem. Remember that self-harm is not a choice but rather a sign that your teen is struggling and needs help.
There are different types of self-harm, and some teens may engage in more than one. These can include cutting, burning, hair pulling, hitting, or even swallowing harmful substances. However, it’s important to note that self-harm is often done secretly, so it can be difficult to detect.
It’s essential to approach self-harm with empathy and understanding. While self-harm can be frightening and confusing for parents and guardians, it’s important to remember that it’s a symptom of a deeper issue that needs to be addressed. By learning more about self-harm and why your teen may be engaging in it, you can better understand their struggles and help them find the support and treatment they need.
Signs and symptoms of teen self-harm
As a parent or guardian, it’s critical to recognize the signs and symptoms of self-harm in your teen. While some teens may be open about their self-harm, others may try to hide it. Here are some common signs to look out for:
Physical signs of self-harm
- Unexplained cuts, bruises, or burns on the body
- Wearing long sleeves or pants, even in warm weather
- Covering up with heavy makeup or accessories (e.g., wristbands)
- Blood stains on clothing or tissues
Behavioral self-harm signs
- Spending a lot of time alone or isolating themselves
- Unusual secrecy or hiding belongings
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Expressing feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
- Acting impulsively or recklessly
- Engaging in substance abuse
It’s important to note that not all teens who engage in self-harm will display these signs, and some teens may exhibit signs that are not listed here. It’s also possible for teens to hide their self-harm completely.
If you suspect that your teen may be engaging in self-harm, it’s essential to approach the topic with care and understanding. You may want to have an open and honest conversation with your teen, expressing your concern and offering your support. Remember to listen without judgment and seek professional help if necessary. With the proper support and treatment, your teen can heal from self-harm and learn healthier ways to cope with emotional pain.
OCD self-harm:
Relief from the obsession
Teenagers with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may engage in self-harm as a way to manage their symptoms. OCD is a mental health disorder characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts or obsessions, often followed by repetitive behaviors or compulsions. For some teens with OCD, self-harm can serve as a way to relieve the anxiety and distress caused by their obsessions. Common OCD-related self-harm behaviors include skin picking, hair pulling, and excessive grooming. It’s important to note that self-harm related to OCD is not a choice, but rather a symptom of the disorder.
Teen cutting
Cutting, also known as self-injury, is a type of self-harm that some teenagers may engage in as a way to cope with difficult emotions. Cutting is a prevalent form of self-harm among teenagers, with studies indicating that up to one in five teens may engage in self-harm behaviors such as cutting. Cutting involves deliberately harming oneself by making cuts or scratches on the skin with a sharp object.
Why do teenagers cut themselves?
There are many reasons why teenagers may engage in cutting. For some, it can serve as a way to release emotional pain, while others may use cutting as a way to feel in control or to punish themselves. It’s important to note that cutting is not a choice or attention-seeking behavior, but rather a coping mechanism for underlying emotional distress.
Signs of cutting may include wearing long sleeves or pants to cover up cuts, spending a lot of time alone, having unexplained cuts or scratches, or hoarding sharp objects.
Teens who cut themselves often do so as a way of coping with emotional pain or trauma.
Talking with your teen about self-harm
If you suspect that your teen may be engaging in self-harm, it’s important to approach the topic with care and sensitivity. Here are some tips for talking with your teen about self-harm:
Choose the right time and place: It’s important to pick a time and place where your teen feels comfortable and safe to talk. Make sure you have enough time to have a full conversation without interruptions.
Express your concern: Let your teen know that you are worried about them and that you care about their well-being. Use “I” statements to express how their behavior is affecting you, such as “I’m worried about you” or “I care about you and want to help.”
"I'm worried about you"
Listen without judgment: It’s important to create a non-judgmental space where your teen feels comfortable sharing their feelings and experiences. Try to understand what they’re going through and avoid criticizing or blaming them.
Offer support: Let your teen know that you’re there to support them and help them find the resources they need. Encourage them to talk to a mental health professional, and offer to help them find a therapist or other treatment options.
Create a safety plan: Work with your teen to create a safety plan for when they feel the urge to self-harm. This can include activities that help them cope with emotional distress, such as journaling, listening to music, or taking a walk.
Remember that talking with your teen about self-harm is a delicate process that requires patience, empathy, and understanding. It may take time for your teen to open up and trust you, so be patient and keep the lines of communication open. With your support and encouragement, your teen can learn healthier ways to cope with emotional pain and heal from self-harm.
Treatment options for teenage self-harming
If you suspect that your teen may be engaging in self-harm, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. There are several treatment options available that can help your teen learn healthier ways to cope with emotional pain and heal from self-harm. Here are some of the most common treatment options for teenage self-harm:
Therapy: Therapy is often the first line of treatment for self-harm. A mental health professional can help your teen identify the underlying issues that are contributing to their self-harm and teach them coping skills to manage their emotions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are two types of therapy that are particularly effective for self-harm. Modern Recovery offers virtual teen therapy, providing a safe and confidential space for your teen to talk to a licensed therapist from the comfort of their own home. Visit our online teen therapy page to learn more about our services and how we can support your teen’s mental health.
Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage underlying mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. It’s important to note that medication alone is not enough to treat self-harm and should be used in conjunction with therapy.
Support groups: Support groups can provide your teen with a sense of community and support as they work to heal from self-harm. Groups such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or Self-Harm Anonymous can provide your teen with a safe space to share their experiences and learn from others.
Hospitalization: In severe cases of self-harm, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure the safety of your teen. In the hospital, your teen can receive intensive therapy and support to help them manage their emotions and learn healthier coping skills.
It’s important to find a mental health professional who has experience working with self-harm and can provide your teen with the right treatment plan for their needs. Your primary care doctor or a local mental health clinic can provide you with referrals to qualified professionals in your area.
Remember, recovery from self-harm is a process that takes time and effort. It’s important to be patient and supportive of your teen as they work towards healing. With the right treatment and support, your teen can overcome self-harm and learn to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Conclusion
As a parent or guardian, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and concerned if you suspect your teen may be engaging in self-harm. However, it’s important to remember that self-harm is a treatable condition, and your teen can recover with the right support and treatment.
If you suspect that your teen may be engaging in self-harm, the most important thing you can do is seek professional help as soon as possible. A mental health professional can provide your teen with the support and guidance they need to overcome self-harm and learn healthier ways to cope with emotional pain.
Remember, you are not alone in this. There are resources and support available to you and your teen. With the right treatment, your teen can learn to manage their emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and live a fulfilling life.