Self-harming

For some young people, self harming is a way of coping with problems that have left them feeling helpless and hopeless. It may give them a sense of control over these problems.

Self-harming may be triggered by:

• parents’ divorce
• death of a friend or family member
• bullying
• exam pressure
• low self esteem

Self harming can include:

• Cutting
• Burning
• Pulling out hair
• Poisoning

It can also involve risk taking behaviour like binge drinking and taking drugs with no thought to the consequences.

It is thought that around one in 15 young people self harm, with the majority aged between 11 and 25.  Generally it’s carried out in secret and can go on for a long time without anyone realising.

If you are self harming and want to stop, you can make small changes to help you get over this.  You could write a diary about how you feel in a certain situation and what causes you to self harm.  Or try listening to music or doing exercise which will help you clear your head.  It also helps to talk to friends or family members about what you are going through.

Useful Links & Contacts

Your GP will also be able to give you support and advice, and help is also available at:

The Junction

78 Maldon Road, Colchester, Essex, CO3 3AL

Tel: 01206 541841

Teen Talk

17 Cliff Road, Dovercourt, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3PP

Tel: 01255 504800

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