Shout
It's free to text Shout on 85258 from all major mobile networks in the UK anytime, day or night. Your messages are confidential and anonymous.
Supporting someone who self harms can be very difficult and challenging, and it is important to recognise that. Knowing that someone you care about is in emotional distress can create many feelings including fear, anger, frustration, helplessness and sadness.
Try to ensure that you have a way of dealing with your own reactions and feelings to this as the person you are supporting is going to need all the patience, understanding and support you can give.
Related resources
Organisations that can help
Youngminds
Whether you want to understand more about how you're feeling and find ways to feel better, or you want to support someone who's struggling, Youngminds can help.
Papyrus
Are you, or is a young person you know, not coping with life? For confidential suicide prevention advice contact HOPELINE247.
The Mix
The Mix can help you take on any challenge you’re facing - from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs.
Samaritans
Whatever you're going through, you can contact the Samaritans for support. This is a listening service and does not offer advice or intervention.
Childline
Get help and advice about a wide range of issues. Call 0800 1111, talk to a counsellor online, send Childline an email or post on the message boards.