Found self harm equipment

[Doveslove]

Tidying dd’s (13) room I came across something she has been using cut herself.
I know she has done it before and I have tried to talk to her about other ways of dealing with being upset but she really didn’t want to talk about it. She also sees a counsellor at school who is aware of it.

My dilemma is what to do about what I’ve come across. It was definitely hidden. I’ve put it back for now, my reasoning being that if she doesn’t have that then she might look for something worse to use. And also that she will think I have invaded her privacy. But obviously I don’t want her doing it at all.

I don’t think this is something she does a lot and whilst I don’t want to ignore it I equally don’t want to make it a big deal and for it to escalate.

i did think about replacing it with a note or a treat with a helpline number or something but I could really do with some decent advice.

Ah OP I'm sorry. I'm not sure on official guidance but I did this as a teen. I was very angry and sad so you really do need to talk to her about her mental health.

I stopped because my mum found out and said if she ever caught me again she'd take away everything I loved. So I stopped. But I know it's not that easy for some. She also explained that if it got infected I could lose a limb if untreated.

I hope you manage to sort it. I would take he item away. And make sure any razors are kept locked up (I used to smash them for the blades).

Could it be an object she'd tucked away and forgotten about? Or maybe one that she keeps for reassurance but is not actively using anymore?
It's really positive that she's seeing the school counsellor as she has the opportunity to talk about this when she wants to.
I think your idea about tucking a helpline number in the hiding place is a good one, but maybe keep the item with it. Perhaps put a note in with it, something like, "Before you use this, call Kooth (or whoever it is). Don't forget I love you and am always here when you need me, Love Mum xxx".

@HarrietSchulenberg Yes I don’t think she’s used it for a while which is partly why I don’t want to make a big deal of it.

@IDontWantToBeAPie wow that was a risky approach for your mum to take-I’m glad it worked for you but I’d worry I’d make it worse if I said something like that. I’ve talked about the infection risk before but might drop that in again.

Its gone from its hiding place. I don’t know if that means she’s got rid or hidden it somewhere else.
I think she was doing something last night when I went into her room (I do always knock first) as she seemed quite sheepish.