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Discover compassionate and effective ways to support a teen who self harms and help them begin their journey toward healing.

Self-harm among teens is more common than many people realize—and more misunderstood. It’s not a cry for attention, but a cry for relief.

For many adolescents, the physical pain of cutting, burning, or scratching offers a temporary release from intense emotional distress. It might bring a fleeting sense of calm or control, but it doesn’t solve the underlying issues—and the emotional pain quickly returns.

A recent analysis from the Centers for Disease Control reveals that up to 30 percent of teenage girls and 10 percent of boys say they have intentionally harmed themselves. Among LGBTQ+ teens, 63 percent report self-harming behaviors.

Self-injury can be a sign of deeper struggles such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or overwhelming stress. Some teens may try it only a few times and stop. Others may continue the behavior over weeks, months, or even years, creating a dangerous cycle that becomes hard to break.

While discovering that your child is self-harming can be heartbreaking and frightening, there is hope. Healing begins with understanding, compassion, and support.

One in five teens will engage in self-harm at some point, often as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions. Early support can make all the difference.

Top 5 Ways Parents Can Help a Teen Who Self-Harms

Stay Calm and Open

Reacting with anger or panic can cause your teen to withdraw. Approach the conversation gently. Let them know you’re there to support them, not to punish or shame them.

Listen Without Judgment

Teens who self-injure often feel misunderstood. Create a safe space for them to talk. Resist the urge to immediately “fix” the problem—instead, validate their feelings and show empathy.

Encourage Healthy Coping Strategies

Help your teen discover healthy outlets for emotional release. Physical activities like exercise, art, journaling, or music can provide powerful alternatives to self-harm.

Remove or Monitor Access to Harmful Objects

Without being invasive, try to reduce access to items they may use to hurt themselves. It’s not about control—it’s about safety while healing begins.

Seek Professional Help

Self-harm is a sign that your teen needs more support than they can give themselves. Therapy with a mental health professional trained in adolescent care is a vital step toward recovery.

At Camino a Casa, we provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment for teens facing self-injury, depression, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. Our expert team helps teens and families build the tools they need to heal, grow, and reconnect.

If you’re concerned about your teen, don’t wait. Contact our Admissions team at 805-366-4000.