Concerned Your Teen May Be Self-Harming?

Self-harm is a disturbing issue that affects teenagers around the world. It is an unhealthy coping mechanism that can lead to serious consequences if not addressed properly. 

The statistics show that it is a relatively common problem. 

Here are some current statistics on teens and self-harm:

According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2019:

⚠️  approximately 18.8% of high school students in the United States reported having engaged in self-harm in the past year

⚠️ female students were more likely to report engaging in self-harm than male students, with rates of 25.5% and 11.6%, respectively

A 2020 study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that rates of self-harm among teenagers have increased over the past decade. 

⚠️ The study found that between 2009 and 2019, the proportion of adolescents who reported engaging in self-harm increased from 14% to 19%.

These statistics highlight the importance of addressing self-harm among teenagers and providing support and resources for those who may be struggling.

As a parent, it is essential to know the signs of self-harm and to learn how to help your teenager overcome this behavior.

Self-harm, also known as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), refers to any deliberate act of harming oneself without the intention of ending one's life. 

Here are some different types of self-harm:

🔹 Cutting: This is the most common form of self-harm, which involves using a sharp object to make cuts or scratches on the skin.

🔹 Burning: This involves using heat sources, such as lighters, matches, or cigarettes, to burn the skin.

🔹 Bruising: This involves intentionally causing bruises on the skin by hitting or punching oneself.

🔹 Scratching: This involves using the fingernails or another sharp object to scratch the skin, causing bleeding or wounds.

🔹 Hair-pulling: This involves pulling out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or other areas of the body.

🔹 Biting: This involves biting oneself, which can cause bruising or bleeding.

🔹 Interfering with wound healing: This involves intentionally reopening or preventing the healing of wounds, which can lead to infections and scarring.

It's important to note that self-harm can take many different forms, and these are just a few examples. 

Any deliberate act of harming oneself, whether it involves physical injury or not, should be taken seriously and addressed with appropriate support and treatment.

Signs of Self-Harm in Teenagers

Self-harm is a secretive behavior, and it can be challenging to detect. However, there are some signs that parents can look for to identify self-harm in their teenagers. Some of the signs of self-harm include:

🔺 Unexplained injuries such as cuts, bruises, and burns

🔺 Wearing long sleeves and pants even in hot weather

🔺 Frequent isolation and spending time alone

🔺 Changes in eating or sleeping habits

🔺 Low self-esteem

🔺 Unusual behavior such as impulsiveness or aggressiveness

It is crucial to note that these signs do not necessarily indicate self-harm. However, if you notice a combination of these signs, it may be time to talk to your teenager about their mental health.

Does this feel like a lot to you? Come in, sit down, and let's chat. Allow me to learn about the specifics of your teen and your concerns, we can set some goals and get a plan together.

We have an environment where your teen can feel seen, heard and safe.

I would LOVE to talk with you:)! Call Harper Therapy at 813-434-3639.

Please note that this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. If you are concerned that your teenager may be self-harming or struggling with mental health issues, we urge you to seek the help of a qualified mental health professional. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 1-800-273-8255 and provides 24/7 support for individuals in crisis.