When Your Teen Is Hurting: Understanding Self-Harm

As a parent, discovering that your teen is engaging in self-harm can be heartbreaking and confusing. I remember the moment I found out my own child was struggling in this way—the mix of fear, sadness, and helplessness was overwhelming. I wanted to fix everything, but I quickly learned that listening and offering unconditional support mattered most. Teens who self-harm are often seeking relief from emotional pain, not attention. If you’re facing this, know you’re not alone. It’s okay to reach out for help, both for your teen and for yourself. Healing is possible, one conversation at a time. Have you experienced something similar, or do you have advice for parents going through this? Share your thoughts below—your story could help someone else. #ParentingTeens #MentalHealthMatters #FaithAndFamily #Parenting