Self-Harm Awareness
This resource toolkit brings together up-to-date resources from trusted organizations, including tools, data, and links designed to support young people, caregivers, and professionals in finding the help and information they need.*
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*All data and links were accurate at the time of publication, but may change over time.
FOR URGENT SUPPORT TEXT OR CALL 988
Information for:
Self-harm, also known as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), is a critical issue among teenagers that requires empathetic understanding and proactive support. In the 2023-2024 school year, 15% of Georgia students (grades 6–12) self-reported considering harming themselves in the past year1 — a reminder that caring adults, peers, and providers all have a role in early recognition and support.
Self-harm is when a person intentionally hurts their body without the intention of suicide, often as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions. It can become a repetitive pattern, and even though it is distinct/separate from suicidality, it raises risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors over time. Common forms of self-harm include cutting, burning, and scratching. Despite misconceptions, self-harm is not an attention-seeking behavior nor is it limited to teenage girls; it affects individuals of all genders and backgrounds2. Through awareness, education, open dialogue, and compassion, we can empower these youth to find healthier ways to manage difficult feelings and build on their strengths.
EVERYONE
Gaining a deeper understanding of self-harm is crucial for knowing when and how to intervene, whether for ourselves or others. It helps us identify alternative ways to manage intense emotions, such as reaching out to a crisis counselor at 988 or 741741, engaging in creative activities like drawing or making music, practicing mindfulness and meditation, and seeking support from friends or pets.
If you or someone you know is struggling with self-harm and needs support, check out one of these organizations:
Crisis Text Line offers a comprehensive webpage about self-harm, warning signs, and provides guidance on how to deal with self-harm by offering healthy coping mechanisms and support resources. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
YOUTH
Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or numb can happen to anyone, and you don’t have to handle hard feelings alone. Appropriate coping tools can bring relief and help you build the life you want, and reaching out to someone – whether to a trusted adult, a counselor, a trained crisis counselor, or a friend – can be the first step toward feeling better.
Explore these resources to learn more about coping skills, next steps and more:
There are many options out there for how to cope in a healthy way. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Strong4Life offers a variety of coping skills for you to use!
Once you have a better idea of healthy coping skills you’d like to use in stressful moments, create a personal Safety Plan using the 988 Lifeline Youth page. A safety plan is there to help guide you through a crisis in a safe way. Keep it handy and refer to it in case you have thoughts of harming yourself.
The Trevor Project offers specialized support for self-harm recovery. Although it places a focus on LGBTQ+ young people, its resources are valuable for all youth. Explore this webpage dedicated to self-harm support for young people. ​
CAREGIVERS
Discovering signs of self‑harm can bring feelings of fear, confusion, and urgency for caregivers. It helps to remember that asking someone directly about self‑harm (and/or suicide) does not “plant the idea,” and that calm, non‑judgmental conversation is a protective approach. ​
Explore these resources to learn how to better support the young person in your life:
Read this caregiver-friendly guide from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Maybe it will inspire dialogue for a check-in with your child or a young person in your life. When Children and Teens SelfHarm — HealthyChildren.org (AAP)
If your child is self-harming, the Cornell Research Program on Self-Injury and Recovery has information and resources specifically for parents at this webpage. ​
EDUCATORS & PROFESSIONALS
Nonsuicidal self-injury often shows up in middle- and high school-aged youth. However, many schools still lack clear, comprehensive protocols for identifying, responding to, and preventing self-harm.
Explore these resources to better support the young people you serve:
This evidence-informed guide for schools from the Cornell Research Program on Self-Injury and Recovery can be adapted to develop and implement school protocols. For a helpful infographic and flow-chart on protocol process, click here!
Not seeing a resource you need? Email us freeyourfeels@gmail.com and let's work together on creating resources that support the mental health and wellbeing of Georgia’s young people
If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, please call or text 988 for 24/7 support.
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Free Your Feels is not a mental health provider and does not offer crisis services.
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Additional topics and resources are available in the Resource Library.
