Self-harm and teenagers

There are a number of things that you can try to help your teenager with self-harm. If you'd like to understand more about self-harming behaviour, read our fact sheet on self-harm and teenagers.

Otherwise, see below for some ideas on what you can do to help your teenager find other coping skills.

Ask an expert: Self-harm in teenagers

Clinical psychologist Nasalifya Namwinga answers common questions about self-harm and offers expert advice on how to support your teen.

Seek medical attention for self-harm

Learn how to help your teenager seek medical attention for self-harming behaviour. Know when to consult a GP and when to go straight to a hospital’s emergency department.

Talk about self-destructive behaviours

Learn how to talk to your teenager about self-harm and potentially destructive behaviour.

Positive coping skills for self-harm

Learn how to support your teenager to develop positive coping skills to prevent self-harm.

A parent's story about self-harm

Read Rick's story about his son Carl who was self-harming.

Yellow socks on person lying on bed with legs crossed

A teenager's story about self-harm

A teenager learns the importance of trust after eventually opening up to her mother about self-harm.