Learning More About Self Harm in Teens

 

Self Harm, which is also known as self injury, is a very serious condition, often occurring in teens.  It is important for the parents to recognize the signs of self harm so in order to help their children to get the treatment that they need.  Some parents feel that self harm is part of a suicide attempt, but that is not often the case.  Several factors play a part in self harm and knowing what to look for in your teen will aid in recognizing the signs before it before it goes too far. 

 

What is the Purpose Behind Self Harm?

 It is important to understand why teens get involved in self injury acts such as cutting.  Generally started as a way to deal with emotional stress or pain, it can serve as a way to release pent up frustration and anger.  Many teens describe it as a calming sensation that flows through their entire body which helps them to release their tension.  Because this is a very unhealthy way of dealing with emotional pain, it should be addressed early. 

Many times, teens that take part in self harm do it impulsively and often.  It can also come along with many other illnesses such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders or even eating disorders.  There has not been a single cause pinpointed that leads to self harm, but there can be certain triggers that bring it on.  This is especially true in situations where teens feel that they have no control. 

 

Different Forms of Self Harm

While the most common form of self harm is cutting, there are many other methods of self injury as well.  Here are a few of the most common:

  • Cutting
  • Deep scratching or carving
  • Hitting
  • Head banging
  • Piercing
  • Biting

 

Warning Signs Associated with Self Harm

There are a few things that parents can look for if they are concerned about the wellbeing of their teenager. It is important to note that the warning signs can be difficult to spot because most people that take part in self injury try to keep what they’re doing from others.  Some of the symptoms may include:

  • Scars
  • Cuts
  • Scrapes

Many teens will spend a lot of their time alone when they are involved in self harm because they do not want others to find out about it.  Also, they may have issues maintaining relationships, both romantic and friendly.  It is also common for those involved in self harm to wear clothes that cover up their arms and legs completely, even during the summer time. 

 

What to Do if You Find that Your Teen Has Been Harming Themselves

If you do find out that your teen is involved in some form of self harm, then you will want to  intervene.  Doorways offers counseling for teens that need help for self harm or self injury.

 

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