Self-harm means intentionally causing harm or damage to yourself. People of any age can be affected by self-harm, and it can occur in different forms.
Some young people share that they self-harm as a way of coping with difficult feelings or thoughts, and it doesn’t always mean the person wants to end their life. However, it’s important to remember that there are risks with self-harming, and taking care of your wounds and seeking support will help keep you safe.
Signs of self-harm
Here are some signs of self-harm that you can look out for, if you are concerned that someone close to you is self-harming:
- unexplained cuts, bruises, burns
- self-loathing or low self-esteem
- becoming withdrawn from others
- unusual weight loss or gain, or changes in eating or sleeping habits
- evidence of vomiting in toilets or sinks (blocked drains)
- keeping skin covered, even in hot weather
Self-harm can often be associated with feelings of shame and guilt, making it difficult for the person to reach out for some support. There are many alternative coping tools you can try, and people or services you can reach out to support if you or your child is thinking about self-harming. Seeking support from a trusted adult (parent or teacher) or professional (GP or support helpline) about your urge to self-harm can help you find positive ways to cope, manage difficult feelings and help you figure out what triggers these urges in the first place.
Who to contact
Childline
- Telephone: 0800 1111
Emergency services
- Telephone: 999
Shout Crisis text line
- Text the word ‘SHOUT’ or YM to 85258 (under 19s)
YoungMinds parents helpline
- Telephone: 0808 802 5544
This line is available Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm.
NHS
- Telephone: 111, or contact your GP.
Useful resources
Get Self Help – Dealing with Distress (PDF)
Websites
Childline – Self harm
NHS – Self-harm
Health for Teens – Self Harm
YoungMinds – Parents Helpline – for parents with concerns for a child under 25 years.
Apps
- Calm Harm App
- distrACT (Available on the Apple App Store)
Podcasts
Listen to our Youth Mental Health podcasts.