Chances are that if you suspect your teen is struggling with self harm, you may have missed some of the earlier signs. Things that seem normal in teenage behavior like changes to their eating or sleeping habits. Or even being overly secretive about their feelings. Too often these signs are grouped in as behavior expected from a teen. As parents, it can be easy to miss so don’t beat yourself up about it. You can however be on the lookout for these types of behaviors coupled with some other telltale signs of self harm. Things like:
1) Strange excuses for injuries.
2) Wearing long sleeved clothes in the heat or avoiding going swimming.
3) Hiding clothes or insisting on washing their garments separately themselves.
4) Cutting instruments (razorblades, sharp knives, etc.) found in your teen’s belongings.
5) Difficulty dealing with stress or failure
Self harm is a raging epidemic that our teens are facing. It is reported that each year, 1 in 5 females and 1 in 7 males engage in self harm. And that number is only expected to rise. Get a handle of the issue and be on the lookout for the signs. When you need help, turn to teen counseling. An experienced counselor will know how to help you and your teen navigate the road ahead.
Give Insight Child & Family Counseling a call today at 972-426-9500 or visit us online at www.j9n.83e.myftpupload.com for more free information and resources.