Young People and Self-harm

Levels of self-harm continues to rise amongst young people and though a taboo subject for many, which adds to stigma and feelings of shame, we need to understand and talk about it more if we are going to find a way to support those affected, provide support at the earliest opportunity, and reduce the incidence of self-harm.

The difficulty of understanding why someone may hurt themselves and fear of making things worse can stop us engaging with this difficult issue at all.

NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care has produced information resources for young people and their parents and carers, which explain why people may self-harm, how to talk about it and strategies to help young people manage their emotions before they reach a crisis, while highlighting sources of help:

• Self-harm: A Guide for Young People
• Self-Harm: A guide for parents and carers
• Mental Health: Young People and Self-harm

Help is available and no young person should ever suffer alone.