Dumfries and Galloway people were asked to support National Self Harm Awareness Day which took place on Tuesday 1 March
On the day and in the weeks leading up to it some people choose to be open about their own self harm and organisations try to raise awareness about self-harm and self-injury.
Claire Thirlwall, Health and Wellbeing Specialist with the NHS/Dumfries & Galloway Council DG Health & Wellbeing Team, works with a number of local organisations to deliver awareness sessions to people who want to learn more about this difficult subject. She said: “It is hard to say how many people self-harm but we know it affects people from all walks of life and of all ages.
“Some estimates suggest that up to 13% of young people may try to hurt themselves at some point between the ages of 11 and 16 but the real figure may be much higher.
“One important aspect of the session is learning how to have a non-judgemental conversation about the behaviour using active listening skills. We will also look at the impact this behaviour has on the person, their family, friends and Carers, awareness of coping strategies and places where they can find additional support. This year we are also launching an information and guidance resource for frontline practitioners to complement the training”
“Quite often people who self-harm face stigma from the people around them. This can have a big impact on the person and may stop them from accessing support from families, friends or services” said a support worker from Support in Mind Scotland.
“It’s important that there is more awareness as this can make a big difference to people with self-harming behaviours”
For more information on available courses please contact Kelsey Mcgowan at [email protected] or telephone 01387 244433
