Self-harm is when somebody intentionally damages or injures their body. It’s usually a way of coping with, or expressing, overwhelming emotional distress. This Workshops focuses on gaining a better knowledge and understanding of self-harm among care experienced children and young people.
There are no fixed rules about why people self-harm. Sometimes when people self-harm, they feel on some level that they intend to die. More than half of people who die by suicide have a history of self-harm. However, the intention is usually to punish themselves, express their distress, or relieve unbearable tension. Sometimes it may be a mixture of all three.
It really can be very different for everyone. For some, self-harm is linked to specific experiences and is a way of dealing with something that's either happening now or which happened in the past. For others, the reasons are less clear and can be harder to make sense of. Whatever the reasons for self-harm, it is essential to let the child or young person know that they are not alone and can get help.
AIM
To gain better knowledge and understanding of self-harm and how this fits with the challenges faced by CYP in relation to mental health and emotional wellbeing.
OBJECTIVES
- Understand how self-harm fit within our understanding of mental health and wellbeing.
- Recognise the risk factors and signs of self-harm among children and young people.
- Know how to support a child or young person experiencing a mental health crisis.
- Be aware of the importance of self-care and sources of support
If you have any questions regarding our workshops you can contact us on CECYPS@childrenshealthscotland.org
