Discovery Health :: Self-Injurious Behavior: Tips for Parents

Teens and Cutting

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What's a Parent to Do About Self-Injurious Behavior?

First, don't panic if you discover that your teen is injuring herself.
Realize that most teenagers with self-injurious behavior (SIB) are not attempting suicide.
You'll want to carefully address the issue with your child. It's not a behavior that requires punishment; punishment may only increase the child's negative emotions.
Do not judge or blame your child for what has happened.
Understand that many of the internal impulses are often unexplained or unrecognized by the child.
Try and listen to what your child has to say.
Hug your child if she will let you, or sit by her side.
Tell your child: "I am so sorry you are going through this. You must be hurting so very badly inside, and no matter what has happened in the past, I am your parent and I love you. What can I do to help?"
Do your homework, call a local support group, talk to your child's pediatrician and/or local social-service professional for recommendations for health-care professionals who can help your child.
You may also want to check these self-injurious behavior resources.

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