Overcoming self-harm and suicidal thoughts

In a desperate attempt to cope with emotional distress, some teens resort to self-harming. A calm, compassionate response is needed, an experienced psychotherapist tells Marjorie Brennan.

DISCOVERING your child is self-harming is a frightening prospect for any parent but being informed is key to tackling this growing issue, says Liz Quish, psychotherapist and author of Overcoming Self-Harm and Suicidal Thoughts, a practical guide for parents, teachers and youth workers.

Quish, who has been working with children and families for more than 20 years, says teens self-harm due to psychological distress or emotional pain.