Discover ways to support young people who self-harm
Self-harm amongst young people is increasing at an alarming rate with a reported 68% rise amongst girls aged 13-16 since 2011. So what can you do to support young people you suspect might be self-harming?
Self-harming is impacting increasing numbers of young people. In 2020-2021 one in 20 of all ChildLine counselling sessions related to the issue. But supporting young people can be challenging when they can be ashamed and secretive about their behaviour. So where can you turn for advice, so that you can offer more effective support?
West Sussex MIND together with YMCA Downslink Group, has recently established a self-harming learning network designed to increase learning and understanding around the issue.
As part of the initiative, the network is running free webinars between now and February 2023, open to all adults supporting young people who self-harm. Each session will be run by Alison Lovegrove, an Emotional Health & Wellbeing Worker at YMCA Downslink, and will cover from everything from risk factors and triggers to the psychology behind self-harm and ways of helping to prevent it.
The one-hour sessions aim to reduce fear around the issue and increase the confidence of those supporting young people, with numerous helpful resources, strategies and tactics discussed.
To book your place on the next free webinar check out our Learning4LifeSussex website, where you can also find details of more free CPD workshops, webinars and training sessions covering everything from how to support young GRT learners and care leavers through to how to recognise and tackle unconscious bias.
If you’re wanting advice around self-harm before the next webinar, you can also check out MIND’s website which has a wealth of accessible and helpful information to consult.