During adolescence, our child goes through many physical, emotional and psychological changes. Although these changes are often natural, there are times when immediate professional help is needed. In this article, we have collected ten critical situations in which you should not hesitate to contact a specialist immediately.
- Self hurt or self-mutilation is a serious warning sign. If you notice cuts, burns or other injuries on your child, contact a psychologist or psychiatrist immediately. This behavior is often a symptom of deeper emotional or mental problems.
- Suicidal thoughts: If your child shares suicidal thoughts with us, or if you see signs of suicide (for example, writing goodbye letters, looking for dangerous situations), contact a professional immediately. Suicidal thoughts are a serious threat and require urgent intervention.
- Drastic mood changes: If our child's mood changes drastically, for example, he suddenly falls into a deep depression or becomes extremely irritable, this may indicate mental health problems. A psychologist or psychiatrist can help you understand and deal with the situation.
- Eating disorders: Anorexia, bulimia and other eating disorders can lead to serious health problems. If your child changes his eating habits drastically, experiences weight loss, or sees other eating disorders, we should see a specialist.
- Alcohol and drug use: If your child uses alcohol or drugs in an extreme way, contact a specialist immediately. Such behavior can have serious consequences, including addiction and poor mental health. Experts can help you deal with the problem and find the right way.
- School problems: If your child shows a sudden deterioration in school performance, is often absent from school, or has conflicts with teachers and peers, this may indicate serious problems. A school psychologist or child psychologist can help identify and resolve the situation.
- Social relationship difficulties: Teenagers often struggle with social relationship problems, but if our child is completely isolated or has constant conflicts with friends, it can indicate deeper problems. A professional can help you develop social skills and solve problems.
- Violent behavior: If our child behaves violently towards others or often gets into conflicts, this can be a sign of serious problems. Behind such behavior are often deeper emotional or mental problems that can be addressed with the help of a professional.
- Signs of sexual abuse: If your child has become a victim of sexual abuse, or if you suspect such abuse, contact a professional and the authorities immediately. Such situations are extremely serious and require immediate intervention to protect the child.
- Chronic anxiety and panic attacks: Chronic anxiety and panic attacks can seriously affect our child's quality of life. If your child often experiences such symptoms, it is worth contacting a psychologist or psychiatrist, who can recommend an appropriate treatment method.
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What is self-hurt and how can we recognize it?
Self-mutilation or self-hurt, is a form of behavior in which an individual intentionally causes physical injury to themselves, usually on the surface of the skin. This is a serious warning sign that could indicate deeper emotional or mental issues. The purpose of self-hurt is often to relieve emotional pain, reduce tension, or gain a sense of control. As parents, it is important to recognize the signs of this behavior and provide appropriate help to our child.
Types of self-hurt
There are several types of self-mutilation, and they are not always easy to recognize. Some common forms are:
- Cut : One of the most common types where the individual makes a cut on the skin with a sharp object such as a razor blade or scissors.
- Burn : The individual causes burns with hot objects or fire.
- Hitting : The individual hits or kicks themselves, which can cause bruising and swelling.
- Scratching : The individual scratches the skin vigorously, often with a fingernail or other sharp object.
- Stinging : The individual stings itself, which can cause small bruises and pain.
Signs of self-hurt
The signs of molestation are difficult to spot because in many cases teenagers hide these injuries. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Long-sleeved clothing is common : Even in warm weather, to cover injuries.
- Frequent injuries : Repetitive or unusual injuries to the body.
- Possession of sharp objects : Frequent presence of razor blades, scissors or other sharp objects.
- Behavioral changes : Withdrawn, aloof behavior, mood swings.
- Lack of explanation for injuries : Vague or variable explanations for the cause of injuries.
What can we do as parents?
Recognizing and treating self-hurt is extremely important for our child's well-being. Here are some steps we can take:
- Let's talk openly and honestly : Don't be afraid to talk to your child about self-hurt. Ask how you feel and why you feel the need to injure yourself.
- Don't judge : It is important not to judge your child. Instead, show understanding and support.
- Let's look for a specialist : Behind these actions are often serious mental problems. Contact a child psychologist or psychiatrist who can provide appropriate treatment and therapy.
- Pay attention to the environment : Keep away from dangerous objects with which our child could harm himself.
- Create a supportive environment : Provide a supportive and loving environment where our child feels safe.
Where can we go for help?
If you notice signs of self-hurt, contact a specialist immediately. Here are some places to get help:
- Child psychologists and psychiatrists : These professionals can provide professional help in dealing with the problem.
- School psychologist : Many schools have a psychologist who can support students and families.
- Family Support Centers : These institutions offer a variety of support services for families.
- Crisis lines : There are telephone and online services where you can ask for immediate help.
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