1. Welcome!! Talking Taboos: Self Harm SkyCast

3. Talking Taboos: Self Harm
Today’s Aims:
To look at what self-harm is
To explore some of the reasons why someone might self-harm
To discuss the common myths and misconceptions about self-harm
To introduce some coping strategies for anyone who might be struggling or thinking about self harm.

4. 1. Firstly, we agree that everything that is said in the session is confidential and that we won’t discuss it with anyone outside of this session
2. We all agree to listen to each other and give people a supportive space where they can let their feelings out
3. We will treat each other with respect, take each other’s views seriously and do our best to try and understand where people are coming from, even if we disagree with something they are saying
4. We all agree that we are entitled to share as much or as little as we want – there’s no obligation to say anything during these sessions, but also if you want some time to talk about your situation, that’s okay…
KEEPING THINGS PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL

5. Definition of Self-Harm
Self-harm is the term used to describe when someone deliberately causes harm to themselves either by causing a physical injury or by putting themselves in dangerous situations.  It is also known as self-injury or self-mutilation. 
The National Institute for Clinical Excellence describes self-harm as:  "Intentional self poisoning or injury, irrespective of the apparent purpose of the act " NICE 2004

6. Types of Self-Harm
Cutting, scratching or picking Burning or scalding Inserting objects into the body Substance abuse Head banging and hitting Punching things or throwing yourself against hard objects Taking personal risks Self-neglect Hair pulling (also known as trichotilliomania) Eating disorders Drug taking or excessive alcohol consumption Over dosing Intentionally preventing wounds from healing Swallowing poisonous substances or inappropriate objects

7. Why Self-Harm? Expressing feelings that can’t be put into words
Releasing pain or tension  
Trying to feel in control 
Distracting from overwhelming emotions or difficult life circumstances 
Trying to survive - feeling like they have no choice 
Relieving guilt and self-hate 
Wanting to punish themselves 
To feel alive, or feel something, instead of feeling numb

8. Coping with Self-Harm

9. Meet Jo
Jo is fifteen and lives with her Mum, step-dad Pete and two small brothers. Her Mum and Dad divorced when she was 6 years old and she only occasionally sees her Dad. Jo doesn’t get on with Pete and she has a difficult relationship with her Mum as they argue a lot.
In the last few months, Jo heard that one of her friends has been scratching her arms and legs. One day Jo was feeling particularly unhappy after a row with her Mum and tried hurting herself.
For a little while it made her feel better – she felt more in control of her life but then she found that she couldn’t stop doing it. She realised it was becoming a habit but she couldn’t tell her Mum or Pete, so has decided as her good friend that she wants to talk to you about it...

10. Do’s and Don’ts Do’s Don’ts Do listen and be supportive
Do show them that you care and understand the person behind the self-harm
Do try to understand where they are coming from
Let them remain in control as much as possible
Be positive but don’t point out all the reasons they should be happy in their life
Do get some support for yourself
Do point them in the direction of other places that can offer support
Do offer ideas to help them stop, like distraction techniques
Don’t be judgemental
Don’t jump to conclusions or follow a misconception
Don’t force them to stop – you might be taking away their only coping mechanism
Don’t ask them to promise that they’ll stop – this is likely to add to their pressure and guilt

11. If someone you know is self-harming…
Deal with your own feelings. You may feel shocked, confused, worried – and feel guilty about admitting these feelings. Acknowledging your feelings is an important first step…
Learn about the problem. The best way to overcome any discomfort or distaste you feel about self-harm is by learning about it. Understanding why your friend or family member is self-injuring can help you see the world from his or her eyes.
Don’t judge. Avoid judgmental comments and criticism—they’ll only make things worse. Remember, the self-harming person already feels ashamed and alone.
Offer support, not ultimatums. It’s only natural to want to help, but threats, punishments, and ultimatums are counterproductive.
Encourage communication. Encourage your loved one to express whatever he or she is feeling, even if it’s something you might be uncomfortable with.

12. If YOU are self-harming…
Think about talking to someone and what sort of support you might need…
Think about why you self-harm?
Do you cut to express pain and intense emotions?
Do you cut to calm and soothe yourself?
Do you cut because you feel disconnected and numb?
Do you cut to release tension or vent anger?
Think about your triggers
Try distraction and stopping techniques

13. Places who can Help Talk to someone:
Talk to your GP, teacher or a counsellor
Speak to Jump Start/Off the Record
Call a helpline e.g. Childline
Look online for support