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Self-harm

Self-harm can be a way for young people to manage overwhelming emotions, seek relief from distress, or communicate feelings that are difficult to express. It is often linked to difficulties in emotion regulation, problem-solving, and self-criticism.

NICE guidelines on self-harm (NG225, 2022) recommend psychological interventions that focus on understanding triggers, developing alternative coping strategies, and building emotional regulation skills.

Our resources support practitioners in delivering this work in a structured, engaging, and developmentally appropriate way. They include:

Tools that support the development of a shared formulation, helping practitioners and young people understand what maintains distress and where change is possible
Reflective exercises that promote safer coping mechanisms and improved emotional regulation
Teen-friendly language, graphics and examples to make sensitive work accessible and relatable

Finding new ways to cope: How CBT can help

Finding new ways to cope: How CBT can help

Understanding self-harm

Mapping your journey (example)

Mapping your journey (blank)

Making sense of your experience (example)

Making sense of your experience (blank)

Uncovering the clues