Self-harm is when somebody intentionally damages or injures their body.  Some of the reasons that people may self-harm include:

• expressing or coping with emotional distress
• trying to feel in control
• a way of punishing themselves
• relieving unbearable tension
• a cry for help
• a response to intrusive thoughts

Self-harm may be linked to bad experiences that are happening now, or in the past. But sometimes the reason is unknown. The reasons can also change over time and will not be the same for everybody.

Support is available for anyone who self-harms or thinks about self-harm, as well as their friends and family.

                                                                                                                                                         (NHS)

Useful Websites

School mental health leads can login to the Healthy Young Minds in Herts Schools page to access the Self Harm toolkit.