Chapter 1: The Reality of Self-Harm

Greetings, valued readers.

The subject I am about to discuss is undeniably serious and pertains to matters of life and death. I am referring to self-harm, a troubling practice that affects many individuals, particularly adolescents. The motivation behind this article stems not from a desire to chase trends but rather from my experiences working closely with those who engage in self-harm.

While my primary focus has been on young females aged 12 to 22, it is crucial to recognize that this issue also affects young males. Alarmingly, many parents and guardians fail to grasp the severity of this situation. When a young person begins to inflict cuts on their arms, legs, torso, or neck using sharp objects such as utility knives or razors, it is imperative to act.

The intent of this piece is to highlight the profound seriousness of self-harm, and to reach out to parents of children who may be struggling with this behavior. Additionally, I hope to engage older siblings, relatives, and grandparents in this conversation.

I must stress: SELF-HARM IS A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH.

It is essential to understand that self-harm should not be dismissed as a fleeting emotional reaction. The act of intentionally inflicting harm upon oneself often stems from deep-seated feelings of self-loathing and despair about one’s existence.

However, it is important to note that children are not born with an innate sense of hatred towards themselves. Instead, their self-perception is shaped by external influences, leading to a cause-and-effect relationship:

"I HATE MYSELF BECAUSE MY PARENTS (OR OTHERS) DISLIKE ME."

"I HARM MYSELF BECAUSE MY LIFE IS UNBEARABLE."

These negative feelings often emerge during early adolescence, a time when emotional awareness begins to develop, sometimes culminating in tragic outcomes.

Dear parents and caregivers, if you witness a child engaging in self-harm, it is vital to recognize that these actions signify deep emotional distress. The child may feel unworthy of love and life itself.

If you observe such behavior, it’s crucial to initiate open discussions and provide psychological support. If you feel unqualified to assist, consider seeking the help of a qualified psychologist who can guide both you and your child.

Do not overlook the significance of cuts and scars; they may be just the beginning of a troubling journey that could lead to irreversible consequences. Proactive intervention is far preferable to the grief of losing a child to suicide.

The first video titled "Self-harm and suicide: why does it happen and what can we do to prevent it?" delves into the reasons behind self-harm and offers strategies for prevention. It's a valuable resource for understanding this critical issue.

Section 1.1: Understanding the Triggers of Self-Harm

The roots of self-harm often lie in emotional pain and feelings of worthlessness. Acknowledging this is the first step toward helping those in need.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Role of Family Dynamics

Family attitudes can significantly shape a child's self-image. Positive reinforcement and open communication can combat negative feelings.

Chapter 2: Seeking Help and Support

The second video, "What Can I Do If My Friend is Cutting Themself? | Asking for a Friend | AAP," provides insights for friends and family on how to approach a loved one dealing with self-harm.