Teen self Harm-Let’s fake a smile and hide my problems

 

Listen if they want to talk, but don’t force or pressure them

If your child wants to talk to you, listen and ask them what support they want.

Try to avoid:

• jumping to conclusions or solutions
• pressurising them by setting unrealistic targets
• making them feel guilty that they have caused a ‘problem’.

But if they don’t want to talk to you, suggest that they:

• write you a letter or email about their thoughts and feelings
• talk to another trusted adult
• contact ChildLine on 0800 1111.

Don’t take it personally or feel that you have failed as a parent. Children often don’t talk to their parents about self-harm because they are trying to protect them.

Showing understanding may help to develop your child’s confidence to discuss this with you at a later time.

Here is a link to Reachout.com for real stories ans support: http://us.reachout.com/real-stories/self-harm

 

~DarcSunShine~