Dr. Taji Huang, PhD in Glendale, CA, can help you understand the reasons why your children or teens self-harm and show you how therapy can help you help both you, and them. There are many reasons why young people might engage in self-abuse behaviors, but therapy does work. If you or your child have been struggling with self-harm, there is hope.
Reasons Kids & Teens Self-Harm
Nothing specific causes all teens to self-harm, but some triggers are pretty common. This is not typical behavior in young children unless there is an underlying developmental issue. Unfortunately, there is often a spike in self-abuse behaviors in the tween and teen years. If left untreated, these behaviors can carry over into adulthood.
Some of the common reasons for engaging in self-harm include:
- Relieve Anxiety
- Overcome Emotional Numbness
- Signal Distress
- Depression
- Alleviate Guilt / Shame
Know The Warning Signs
If you are concerned that your teen is engaging in self-harm, such as cutting, burning, or hair pulling, there are some warning signs. Some teens are very good at hiding this behavior. You should not feel guilty if you did not catch it right away.
These are some of the most frequently documented warning signs and red flags:
- Scars (Especially Patterns)
- Picked Scabs
- Fresh Cuts Or Bruises
- Burn Marks
- Excessive Rubbing
- Long Sleeves (Even In Hot Weather)
- Impulsive Behavior
- Feelings Of Helplessness
There Is Hope
There are many treatment options available for tweens and teens who engage in self-injury. The type of treatment depends on several factors, such as age, maturity, overall mental health, and the kind of self-harm behavior that’s happening. Options include talk therapy, which may consist of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) or Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
Other options might include medication, establishing set routines for anxiety, and getting school support from administrators and teachers.
Get Help for Self-Harm In Glendale
You don’t have to keep coping with this issue on your own. If you are an adult in need of help for self-harm or self-abuse, or if you are having trouble coping with cutting in your own children, contact Dr. Taji Huang, PhD in Glendale to set up an appointment.
Therapy sessions can put you back on the road to healing and better mental health. Don’t delay in seeking assistance.