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Child mental health

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DS possible self harm

3 replies

Chimperino · 10/02/2025 18:59

Am after some help, how do I deal with this? My DS is 10 and can't stop picking at scabs until they are deep gouges. These are going to be awful scars. He's been targeting one part of himself for at least 3 months now. I spoke with the GP who prescribed some antibiotic cream to prevent infection. GP advised to speak with school for some help, so I did. We have had an assessment with a mental health service connected to the school and are waiting to see what support is offered. But in the meantime please can any help me with what to do to reduce the harm he is inflicting on himself, and what is good for healing wounds quickly. I have plenty of dressings etc, but it just seems a slow backward process hampered by re-picking and is incredibly frustrating.

OP posts:
purpleme12 · 10/02/2025 19:00

Fidget toys?

username299 · 10/02/2025 19:09

Are you sure it's self harm? It could be OCD or a way of coping with anxiety. Keep his nails short, get him some cotton gloves, keep sharp implements away from him and try and keep him busy with games or colouring. Redirect him if you see him about to pick at himself.

Chimperino · 10/02/2025 19:56

Not sure at all if it is self-harm. It could well be anxiety related, I'm hoping the assessment may help to decide what might help. He does get anxious and stressed and definitely fails to regulate emotions. Not all the time, but quite often. Hadn't considered OCD though. We have fidget toys so will try getting him to use those.

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