Self-Harm
Warning: it can be upsetting and potentially triggering to read information about how to self-harm. If you are feeling vulnerable at the moment, you might not want to read the information below. Speak to a member of the Wardle Academy team.
The reasons children and teenagers can self-harm are often complicated and will be different for every child or young person. Sometimes a child or teenager may not know the reasons they self-harm.
For many young people, self-harm can feel like a way to cope with difficult feelings or to release tension. The physical pain of hurting themselves can feel like a distraction from the emotional pain they’re struggling with.
Content from NSPCC.org
If you are in crisis and you feel that you need support urgently then you should do one of the following:
- Talk to an adult, friend or somebody that you trust as soon as you can.
The following sources of support might also be helpful:
- Childline Tel: 0800 1111 or visit www.childline.org.uk
- Samaritans Tel: 08457 90 90 90 or visit www.samaritans.org
- Papyrus offers support to young people feeling suicidal Tel: 0800 068 4141
If you are already being seen by CAMHS and it is during office hours (Monday -Friday 9am – 5pm), call your CAMHS worker:
- You can also call NHS Emergency & Urgent Care Services by dialling 111
- If you do not currently have a CAMHS worker, or it is outside of office hours, or if you need urgent medical attention you should attend A&E. When you get to A&E you will be seen by a mental health professional as soon as possible.
If you are already open to CAMHS and have a Crisis Plan, please follow the plan. You should have a written copy of it. If not, contact your case manager and ask for a new copy of the plan.
If you are open to CAMHS and do not have a Crisis Plan, please ring your local CAMHS and ask to speak to your case manager. If he or she is not available, ask to speak to the duty worker.
If you are NOT already open to CAMHS and are feeling suicidal please either go to A&E or access emergency services.
You are not alone. Please reach out for help.
