Preventing Self-harm in Teens: A Guide for Appropriate Intervention

Teens have the highest rate of self-harm among any age demographic, with approximately 17% of teens reporting at least one instance of self-harm in their lifetime. The average age of the first incident of self-harm is 13. Often teens will seek out support from loved ones rather than mental health professionals. However, many teens will take extraordinary steps to conceal their self-harm, or even deny engaging in such behavior.

Additionally, they may not even be aware of what professional resources are available to them. As such, it is important for anyone with a teen in their life to be aware of warning signs and understand how to appropriately address instances of self-harm.