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