Clearfork Academy has released a guide for parents on recognizing signs of self-harm in adolescents.
— As part of its latest mental health awareness campaign, Clearfork Academy has published a guide intended to help parents recognize warning signs of self-harm in teenagers. The guide walks readers through visible signs, possible behaviors that teens may exhibit when trying to hide evidence, and what parents can do if they discover their teen is harming themselves.
For more information, please visit https://clearforkacademy.com/blog/6-warning-signs-of-self-harm-in-teens-that-parents-should-know/
Self-harm among adolescents is growing in incidence, with one international study by The Hospital for Sick Children finding a steady rise in healthcare visits and hospitalization due to self-injury in individuals younger than 24. The steepest increases were observed among young girls, who may be disproportionately impacted by societal pressures, increasing screen time, and other factors contributing to distress.
According to Clearfork Academy’s guide, the most obvious signs of self-harm are unexplained cuts, bruises, or marks on the skin, especially if they appear in clusters, if new injuries are found in the same location alongside older injuries, or if the wounds appear too deliberate and uniform to be accidental. Common sites of injuries include the arms, wrists, thighs, and torso, but wounds may also appear on the upper back, shoulders, and hips.
Clearfork Academy’s resource also notes that teens will often attempt to hide evidence of self-harm; dismissive or defensive behavior over wounds, wearing concealing clothing even in warm weather, and withdrawal from family and friends are all signs that the resource says should be causes for concern for parents. Additionally, rejection sensitivity or disproportionately extreme reactions to stress are also things parents should note, as teens who self-harm typically struggle with emotional regulation.
Because teenagers may turn to self-injury as a coping mechanism, Clearfork Academy stresses the importance of approaching the teen calmly and from a place of compassion and understanding, rather than accusation. Per the guide, parents should ensure that they practice active listening, validate their teen’s emotions, and make it clear that they are not being punished.
If the teen confirms they are self-harming, parents should consider seeking professional care, as their child is likely struggling with mental illness. Clearfork Academy’s guide says that licensed therapists who specialize in adolescent mental health and NSSI can help the teen address their mental health issues and adopt healthier coping strategies.
More information is available at https://clearforkacademy.com/
Contact Info:
Name: Clearfork Academy
Email: Send Email
Organization: Clearfork Academy
Address: 7820 Hanger Cutoff Road, Fort Worth, TX 76135, United States
Phone: +1-888-430-5149
Website: https://clearforkacademy.com/
Release ID: 89193713
