Page 4 - Parent & Carer Support Information :: Portus

www.richmond.gov.uk/portus

Discovering your child is Dealing with your emotions
self-harming It is very normal to feel strong emotions. If you can,
try to take some time to let your feelings settle. It’s
Some parents may notice the signs of self-harm in best to focus on your child’s needs at this time, and
their children. Some children may tell their parents it will support your child better if you are able to
about their self-harm; other parents find out from approach the situation calmly and with a willingness
friends, teachers, or medical staff.
to listen and understand.
Discovering that your child is self-harming can be It might be helpful to get yourself some support and
very upsetting and stressful. Parents may experience
a range of emotions, including anger, sadness, an outlet so you can manage your feelings and best
support your child.
helplessness, frustration, shame or disgust.
While self-harm can seem very dramatic and can
be initially shocking, keep in mind that this is your
child’s way of best trying to manage overwhelming
and difficult feelings that they can’t handle any
other way. In letting out emotions this way it can
protect them from doing something more extreme.

Portus - A Safe Space - Self-harm and Suicide Prevention - Parent & Carer Support Information
4