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Welcome to Navigating Public Systems - sharing what we've learned
Thank you for your reply, as much as it isn't nice to hear other children going through this is nice to have someone know how you feel and the struggles. I got a call from cahms yesterday telling me I would receive a letter for a 5 day check in as we went to a&e a few hours later I get an email with an appointment.... 2nd March 3 weeks later how is that a 5 day check in the system is so over loaded and broken its terrible. I do hope you get that call and are seen soon its so hard as us as parents can only do so much and we are not professionals who know what to do, but you are right speek is such a good support and I am so glad I joined. I spoke to my daughters deputy head last night and we agreed a reduced timetable maybe worth a shot as my daughter is year 11 and with exams looming she gets herself in such a state, its so overwhelming, Let's hope for results for us both and our kids can finally get the support they need ️
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Welcome to Supporting My Child - you're not alone in this
If you're here, you're probably looking for answers to some really difficult questions: How do I talk to my child about self-harm? What should I say when I see fresh cuts? Am I making things worse? How can I actually help? How can I stop this? These are the questions parents ask us most. And the fact that you're asking them shows how much you care. This space is for: Sharing what's working (and what isn't) in supporting your child Asking questions you can't ask anywhere else Learning from other parents who've been where you are Getting guidance from our clinical team Common questions we'll explore together: Many parents come to Speek asking: "Why is my child self-harming?" "Does self-harm mean my child is suicidal?" "Why didn't they tell me?" "What should I say when I find out?" "How do I help without making it worse?" These are all questions we'll discuss here - with honesty, without judgment, and with the understanding that there are no perfect answers. What we know from working with families: Self-harm is rarely about "attention" the way some people think. It's usually a coping strategy - a way young people manage overwhelming emotions when they don't have other tools. Learning more about the function (the why) of self-harm, can help change how we understand and how we respond. Your child keeping it secret doesn't mean they don't trust you. It often means they're ashamed, scared of your reaction, or worried about burdening you. Creating a space where it's safe to talk - without blame - is one of the most powerful things you can do. Start a conversation: What question has been weighing on you most? What's one thing you wish you'd known earlier? What's worked for you in difficult conversations with your child? We're here to learn together. The Speek Clinical Team
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Welcome to Looking After Myself - because parents matter too
We hear it all the time from parents: "I'm exhausted, but I can't stop.", "I feel guilty doing anything for myself.", "Everyone keeps telling me to look after myself, but how?" If that sounds familiar, you're in the right place. The truth about parenting through this: Supporting a child who self-harms is one of the hardest things you'll ever do. The constant worry. The emotional rollercoaster of good days and bad days. The loneliness of carrying something most people don't understand. You're allowed to find this hard. You're allowed to be exhausted. You're allowed to struggle. This space is for: Talking honestly about burnout, fear, and overwhelm Discussing boundaries - with your child, your family, yourself Sharing small acts of self-care that actually help Supporting each other through the hardest parts Creating some space to focus just on you and ways to help What we've learned from parents: Many parents benefit from a good support system and breaks. Not because they're selfish, but because you can't pour from an empty cup. Taking 20 minutes for yourself isn't abandoning your child. Setting boundaries isn't being cold. Asking for help isn't failing. Your well-being matters - not just for you, but for your child too. Research shows that parental mental health directly impacts children's recovery. When you're supported, you can support them better. Let's talk about: What does "self-care" actually look like when you're in crisis mode? How do you manage the guilt of taking time for yourself? What helps when you're running on empty? How do you cope with the anxiety and constant worry? You're not alone in feeling this way. And you don't have to figure it out by yourself. The Speek Clinical Team
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Welcome to the Speek Parent Forum
Hi, and welcome. If you're here, it's likely because you're parenting a child who self-harms. We know how isolating that can feel. The fear, the questions you can't ask anyone else, the invisible weight you carry. You're not alone anymore. This forum is a space created specifically for parents of children who self-harm - a place where you can be honest about the hardest parts without judgment, connect with others who truly understand, and get guidance from our clinical team. What you'll find here: We've built four spaces, each designed around what parents tell us they need most: Introductions (you're here) - Say hello when you're ready. No pressure, just people who get it. Supporting my child - Share what works, ask questions about conversations, safety, and recovery. Looking after myself - Talk about burnout, boundaries, and small acts of self-care. Navigating public systems - Share experiences with CAMHS, schools, and services. How to get started: You don't have to share your whole story. Start wherever feels right: Introduce yourself (even just "Hi, I'm here") Read what others have shared Reply to someone else's post Ask a question you've been holding onto A few things to know: This space is professionally moderated by our clinical team Everything here is confidential and anonymous There are no silly questions Lurking is okay - just being here counts We're so glad you found us. Take your time, look around, and know that whatever you're feeling right now - other parents here have felt it too. With care, The Speek Clinical Team
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Speek Clinical Team
Dear new members, Welcome to Speek Ally, a space for you. This forum is a space for parents and carers to ask questions, share experiences, seek advice, or simply just vent. You can post anonymously and say what you need. Just please be kind and respectful and protect identity! Our clinical team are here and may occasionally contribute or clarify where helpful. However, this space is primarily for you — to connect with other parents who understand what this journey can feel like. You don’t have to have the “right” words. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You’re welcome here exactly as you are. Post away! Best wishes, Speek Clinical team