Mental health problems can affect anyone, at any time in life. Sometimes a build up of negative external factors or a traumatic event can cause emotional problems such as depression, stress, anxiety, eating disorders and in some cases post traumatic stress disorder. 

Symptoms of these kinds of problems could include:

• Noticeable weight loss or gain
• restlessness and irritability
• hyper-sensitivity to surroundings or actions of others
• being easily distracted or unable to concentrate
• being tearful or 'on edge'
• being less sociable with friends
• unusual behaviour or actions 
• showing little interest in things that usually bring enjoyment
• lack of personal care in appearance or hygiene.

There are growing concerns about the number of young people who find an outlet for emotional distress through causing themselves physical harm.

It is important for adults who work with children to be able to spot any worrying signs and get the right help for a child who may be in need to further support.

Some forms that self harm can take include:

• Cutting, burning, biting
• substance abuse
• head banging and hitting
• taking personal risks
• picking and scratching
• neglecting oneself
• pulling out hair
• overdosing and self-poisoning.

There is plenty of help out there, but to a child or young person it may be less obvious or they may be embarrassed or ashamed to admit that they have a problem. 

If you feel it is appropriate to do so and will not put the child at risk in any way it is always advisable to speak to the child's parent or carer if you have concerns.



Here are some useful organisations to turn to or signpost a child to if you are worried that they may be experiencing mental health problems of self harming.

Young minds
Committed to improving emotional wellbeing of children and young people. Includes a helpline for anyone who has concerns about the emotional problems or behavior of a young person.
Samaritans
Provide confidential emotional support to those experiencing despair, distress or suicidal feelings.
Teenage Mental Health
Information and advice for young people, parents, carers and professional on teenage mental health.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Free source of information for young people, parents and professionals about a range of mental health difficulties.
National Self Harm Network
Support individuals who self harm to reduce emotional distress and to improve their quality of life. 
Harmless
Provide support, information, resources, training and consultancy to people who self harm and those at risk of self injury.
Beating Eating Disorders (BEAT)
UK charity for people with eating disorders and their families.