Individuals who self-injure may feel that doing so helps release pent-up feelings of anxiety, anger, or sadness. If the source of these emotions they will likely not resolve and may even worsen. Self-harm can additionally be accompanied by guilt and shame and can be dangerous, even if the intention is not physical harm. Self harm can emerge after or in relation to trauma, or as a result of depression, anxiety or other mental health issues.

How can a parent coach help a parent support their child who is struggling with self harm?

It is important to remember that a coach is not treating your child and in the case of a safety crisis local mental health services should be engaged. A parent coach can collaborate with members of your therapeutic team treating your child's underlying struggles, so that they can help you best support your child from an informed perspective. Adolescents and young adults struggling with self-harm are often looking for a sense of relief. Your coach helps you to understand, identify and practice strategies that can interrupt the patterns that may lead to the feeling that the only option is self harm. Additionally, you will learn how to maintain healthy boundaries when your child expresses the desire to self-harm if you do not change the boundaries.

How can a parent coach help a parent struggling with their emotions related to their childʻs self harming behavior?

When a child is struggling it is natural for a parent to feel guilty, hopeless and generally down about their ability to effect change. Your coach will help you to identify triggers so that you can hone your awareness of your child's behaviors and your responses to them, your coach will help you understand and own your strategies that can offer your child another outlet, and they will help you master and enact new responses at difficult junctures.

If you need support in this area and want to explore our contract options, please BOOK A CONSULTATION today.