Self-harm cont.
Signs There is a persistent myth around self-harm being about ‘attention seeking’. This is rarely the case. Most young people who self-harm take extreme care to hide it from other people, so signs may be difficult to notice. Behaviours such as biting or scratching can easily go undetected. Signs of self-harm can include: – Unexplained or frequent injuries – Blood on clothing, or towels and bed sheets – Keeping fully covered, especially during warmer weather and sports activities – Risk-taking behaviours (getting into frequent fights, engaging in high-risk sports, or not taking prescribed medication) – Sharp objects or cutting instruments amongst belongings – Relationship issues – Changes in sleeping and eating patterns
– Low self-esteem, isolation, and mood changes – Poor performance or results at school or work – Loss of interest in favourite hobbies (276)
Multiple piercing or tattooing may be a type of self-harm, especially if pain is a factor for the young person. However, it is important to think about the young person’s background and interests. Tattoos and piercings can be a rite of passage in some cultures and a badge of survival for some people who have lived through depression or suicide (273).
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