Finding out your child may be hurting themselves can feel overwhelming, scary, and deeply personal. You may not have all the answers — and that’s okay. What matters most is that you show up.

This tip sheet walks parents and caregivers through what self-harm is (and isn’t), common warning signs to watch for, myths that can get in the way of helping, and practical steps you can take — from starting the conversation to involving professional support. Written with foster, adoptive, and kinship families in mind, it also addresses the unique layers of stress and trauma that can make self-harming behaviors more likely for the children in your care.

You are not alone, and healing is possible.

 

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Author: Wisconsin Family Connections Center
Additional Author: Coalition for Children, Youth & Families