Self-harm refers to intentionally and repeatedly harming oneself, usually as a means of coping with emotional pain or distress.
Signs of Self-Harm in Teens:
- Unexplained scars, bruises, or cuts
- Wearing long sleeves or pants even in warm weather to cover up injuries
- Keeping sharp objects or other tools for self-harm in their possession
- Isolating from friends and family or avoiding social situations
- Changes in mood or behavior, such as increased anxiety or depression, withdrawal, or aggression
- Changes in sleep or eating habits
How ROWI can help:
- Create a plan around self-harm for the teenager:
- Involve the teenager in the planning process as much as possible, as this will help them take ownership of their recovery and feel more empowered.
- Work together with the teenager to identify their triggers for self-harm and develop strategies to manage these triggers in healthier ways.
- Discuss coping mechanisms that the teenager can use when they feel the urge to self-harm, such as breathing exercises, writing in a journal, or calling a supportive friend.
- Create a list of emergency contacts, including crisis hotlines, mental health professionals, and trusted loved ones, that the teenager can reach out to in times of crisis.
- Develop a plan for what to do in the event of a self-harm episode, including seeking medical attention if necessary.
- Regularly review the plan with the teenager to ensure it is still effective and make any necessary adjustments.
- Encourage the teenager to seek ongoing therapy or counseling to work through the underlying issues that may be contributing to their self-harm.
- Provide the teenager with emotional support and validation throughout the recovery process, and celebrate their progress and successes along the way.
- Individual therapy sessions with licensed therapists trained in evidence-based treatments for self-harm, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Group therapy sessions to provide support and teach coping skills to manage emotions and behaviors that lead to self-harm
- Family therapy sessions to help parents understand and support their child and teach coping skills to manage the effects of self-harm
- Referral to medical providers for medication management, if necessary
- Collaboration with schools and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care
- Educational resources for parents and teens to learn more about self-harm and how to manage symptoms.
Each ROWI client receives a treatment plan that will support them in meeting their goals. Our programs are individualized in order to meet each client and family wherever they are in the process. Contact us to learn more and to get support for your teen struggling with self harm.