Question: What are signs that will tell me if my teen is hurting herself? I just learned that a close friend of hers is in counseling for cutting. My daughter now spends most of her time alone in her room. Could she be deliberately hurting herself?
Answer: You have already noticed your daughter displaying two possible indicators of self-harm: she has a friend who is cutting and exhibits behavior that is isolating and secretive.
Other signs of self-harm include:
• illogical explanations for scratches or other marks on her body
• wearing more clothing than necessary to cover up scars, burns or cuts
• sudden changes in mood, behavior or friends
• finding sharp objects in her bed or bathroom
It can be difficult to know when a teen is engaging in self-harm because she will make every effort to hide it. She is usually ashamed of what she’s doing and will be secretive; making every effort to hide the scars. Some teens experiment out of curiosity and will be influenced by friends who talk about or engage in self-harm.
Be aware that this behavior is similar to an addiction because it has to be repeated more often to get the same results. When this starts to happen she may hurt herself even more, such as cutting on her skin more deeply- so early intervention is important.
FAQ on Teens and Self-Harm, Cutting and Self-Injury
- When Teens Self-Harm: How Dangerous Is It?
- Why do Teens Hurt Themselves with Self-Harming Behaviors?
Other Parenting FAQs: