Please or to access all these features

Mental health

Mumsnet hasn't checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you have medical concerns, please seek medical attention.

Daughter revealed she self harms yesterday

5 replies

SpringCalling · 24/08/2026 22:06

Life is currently a roller coaster. DD, 15, was diagnosed with epilepsy last year and we’ve had nearly a year of her being so fatigued and flat from the meds that her first year of GCSEs has largely been a write off. However, we’ve just finished the transition off Keppra and on to Lamotrogine and it really seems the fatigue is lifting and she’s becoming more alert. Result! And then whilst I was away her dad spotted her wincing and she flatly refused to let him look at her arm. When I got back, after much cajoling, she let me know she had been self harming. She’s asked I only talk to her about the SH on text, so I’m taking it slow and getting info slowly. I’ve alerted her epilepsy team who are trying to bring forward a Psych appt that was already in the works, they’ve also told me to alert her GP which I’ll do tomorrow.
She says she does it when over-whelmed. I’ve asked if she can come to me when she feels that way.
I guess I’m just wondering if any other parents have been through this, what your main Do’s and Don’ts would be?

OP posts:
nrp2 · 24/08/2026 23:10

I can't offer advice as a parent - however please check that she's been using clean instruments, and kept the wounds clean as well as making sure she's aware of what the signs of infection are.

You may find this website helpful, it has some good resources around helping to stop including looking at the best alternatives for what that current aim is. As well resources for loved ones supporting

(sorry I don't know how to do the Mumsnet link thing) Sift - The UK's leading self-harm support charity https://share.google/nTtbNg4XU7FSgLAaq

Helpisonitsway · 25/08/2026 01:01

It’s a positive sign that she (deliberately) made your husband aware and that she is willing to talk to you about it. 💐

SpringCalling · 25/08/2026 09:07

thanks both

OP posts:
Wajeehakamran · 25/08/2026 17:11

That must have been such a shock for you. You’re doing the right thing by staying calm, listening and involving her medical team. Avoid putting pressure on her to explain everything at once and keep reminding her that she can come to you when things feel too much.

Prycejosh1987 · 25/08/2026 23:50

Do comfort her and help her through her pain and help her to confront her troubles to bring them to closure.
Do take her to a counselor.
Dont get angry at her for what she has done.
Its a cry out because she has alot of emotional distress and she doesnt feel optimistic about life or within herself, and she needs confidence to overcome it and move on with high hopes for the future.

New posts on this thread. Refresh page