What should I do if my child is self-harming?

If you discover that your child is self-harming, it’s important to get help. Even if it’s a one-time thing, or an “experiment,” it is a maladaptive coping skill and dangerous, and it can signify deeper mental health struggles. If the self-harming is serious, call your provider or mental health specialist (and call 911 to get immediate help if the situation is life-threatening). You can also contact the crisis text line by texting HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor over text 24/7.

If the situation isn’t life-threatening, talk to your child and discuss your options. Share with them that you will be reaching out to a specialist to make that game plan. Reach out to a mental health professional about getting your child an evaluation. If you don't have a mental health professional yet, talk to your child’s provider and get a referral. Once an evaluation is completed, they will determine what treatment will be most effective. Your child may see a therapist for dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) or cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), depending on their treatment plan. Talk therapy may not work for all kids, so make sure that a variety of options are explored. Family therapy can also help.

For more information, see our full article Supporting Kids' Mental Health at Home and in Crisis.