Concerned about deliberate self harm?

Deliberate self harm is when someone injures or harms themselves on purpose. It can involve overdosing, self poisoning, hitting, and cutting, burning oneself or self strangulation. It can also include taking illegal drugs and drinking too much alcohol. Self harm is always a sign of something being seriously wrong.

Self-harm is most commonly triggered by an argument with a parent or close friend. When the young person has experienced abuse, neglect or rejection, they are more likely to harm themselves. Young people who are depressed, or have an eating disorder, are at greater risk. So too are people who take illegal drugs or excessive amounts of alcohol.

How can I get help?
Anyone who is self harming is struggling to cope and needs help. The person feels so ashamed, guilty or bad that they can’t face talking about it. There may be clues, such as refusing to wear short sleeves or to take off clothing for sports. Parents can help by recognising signs of distress, and finding some way of talking with the young person about how they are feeling, listening to their worries and problems, and taking them seriously.

Make sure that the young person knows they have someone they can talk to and get support from, when they need it. Otherwise, there is a risk they will harm themselves instead. As a parent, you may be too upset or angry to be able to give the help that’s needed. Get advice from your GP.

* Based on ‘Deliberate Self Harm in Young People’ a leaflet developed by the Regional Suicide Resource Office, HSE South and the National Office for Suicide Prevention.