Self Harm

Self-harm describes a range of actions that someone might do to deliberately hurt themselves, including actions such as cutting, over-dosing, hitting, burning or scalding, skin picking or scratching, pulling hair, ingesting toxic substances, and disordered eating. People engage in self-harming for many different reasons, but it is usually in response to stress, distress, and challenging situations, however sometimes there is no clear reason. Self-harm in young people is quite common, affecting about 1 in 5. 

Having supportive adults in school can be hugely helpful to pupils who are struggling with self-harm, who often feel isolated and shameful. As part of the support, it is important that schools develop a whole school approach to mental health and wellbeing, which includes mental health policy, appropriate awareness and training, inclusion of self-harm within PSHE, and crucially recognising the need to support staff who are helping pupils with self-harm. Take a look at the resources below to support with developing a whole school approach and teaching about self-harm.