MADISON, Wis. (WRN) — During Self-Harm Awareness Month, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services wants parents to be on the lookout for signs of self-harm among young people.
Director of the Office of Children’s Mental Health Linda Hall says the number one thing parents can do is listen.
“Have conversation. Try to just hear from them what they’re thinking about, whether they’re stressed and really listen non judgmentally,” Hall said. “Listening is what they tell us, youth tell us mostly that they want their parents and adult supports to do for them.”
Hall says data shows self-harm rises among adolescents after spring break and heading into the end of the school year.