Self injury
Self-harm, or self-injury, describes a wide range of things people deliberately do to themselves that appear to be harmful but usually do not kill them. Self-harm is not usually a failed attempt at suicide, but it can still be very hard for parents or carers.
Cutting the arms or the back of the legs with a razor or knife is the most common form of self-harm, but self-harm can take many forms, including burning, biting, hitting or taking overdoses.
A young person may self-harm to help them cope with negative feelings, to feel more in control or to punish themselves. It can be a way of relieving overwhelming feelings that build up inside, when they feel isolated, angry, guilty or desperate.
Though self-harm is rarely a failed suicide attempt, it can lead to infection, permanent damage and even accidental death. It is therefore important to seek professional advice if your child is self-harming.
Help from YoungMinds
YoungMinds publications that can help with concerns about phobias
Visit our publications section
YoungMinds Parents Information Service can offer further advice on self-harm
Find out more about the Parents Information Service
Call us on 0800 018 2138
Contact us using our form
Useful websites
National self harm network
The Samaritans
Young people and self-harm information resource
Bristol crisis service for women
