SMC Wellbeing
self harm
Tell someone what is going on
People who self harm tend to keep it a secret from others from what they imagine might happen. If you do feel this or think like this it is very important to tell someone you trust or a important person to you. If you don't want to talk to a professional or someone you know there are helplines you can call what stay completely anonymous, these people are there to help and understand what you are going through.
Worried about someone else?
If you have noticed scars, marks or the difference of behaviour in someone that may concern you but not sure if the person is self harming or not, talk to them. Ask them if they want to talk about it and offer your help and support. Remember to be patient with them as they might not want to open up straight away but show them you are here to support. Show you care and are willing to help. It is important that if you are offering support to someone that you also get support from another trusted adult.
Signs to look for in someone
They can include:
-
unexplained injuries, such as scratches or burn marks
-
health complaints such as stomach pains and headaches
-
wearing clothes inappropriate to conditions, e.g. being covered up all the time, even in summer
-
dramatic changes in mood, especially in adolescence, or in adults with previous history of self-harm
-
change in eating and sleeping patterns
-
losing interest in friends and social activities
-
breakdown in regular communications with family or friends
-
no longer interested in favourite things or activities
-
problems with relationships
-
low self-esteem
-
avoiding situations where they have to expose arms or legs, e.g. swimming
-
withdrawing from usual life.
situations where you are most at risk of self-harming behaviours?
-
pressures at school or work
-
physical, sexual or emotional abuse
-
bullying
-
money worries
-
bereavement or grief
-
friends, family or whānau members who don't support their sexuality or identity
-
relationship breakups or losing friends
-
an illness or health problem
-
childhood trauma, abuse or neglect
-
intense or difficult feelings, such as depression, anxiety, anger or numbness, that might be experienced as part of a mental illness
-
being part of a group that self-harm
-
problems in connection with family, whānau, friends or community.
How to build a support network
-
Ask the person you are helping what works for them and who they want involved in their support growth.
-
They may want to bring in groups they’re apart of, Friends or family.
-
Bring everyone together into a safe place where everyone feels close and together.
-
Be open about the situation and talk honestly.
-
Create a plan as a group to support the person. Find a way how they can get help if it is through your local doctor, medical centre, community, community mental health team or school counsellor.
-
Approach your friend calmly and without judgement.
great Websites for more information
Help lines
-
Call Lifeline on 0800 543 354
-
Call Youthline on 0800 376 633, or text 234
-
Call Healthline on 0800 611 116
-
Call Samaritans on 0800 726 666
-
Contact a doctor or your local mental health crisis service
-
Contact your dean/ teachers
-
Parents/ friends
-
Counselor
